Position Overview

This Operating Room Registered Nurse (OR RN) at the Clinical Nurse II level plays a crucial role within the surgical team, delivering exceptional, patient-focused care throughout the perioperative process. The role demands advanced skills, specialized certifications, and the ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with interdisciplinary team members to ensure patient safety and optimal surgical outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Patient Care: Coordinate the healthcare team to provide safe, efficient, and equitable care tailored to surgical patients. Perform thorough preoperative assessments to identify individual patient needs and develop personalized perioperative care plans. Monitor patient responses during surgery and intervene promptly when necessary. Advocate for patients, maintaining their dignity and confidentiality. Administer moderate sedation during Endoscopy procedures.
• Surgical Support: Manage surgical instruments, equipment, and sterile supplies with precision. Handle and document surgical specimens according to policy and physician instructions. Anticipate surgical team needs to maintain smooth workflow.
• Safety and Compliance: Uphold strict aseptic techniques and infection control standards. Adhere to hospital and regulatory guidelines including The Joint Commission, OSHA, and AORN. Follow protocols to ensure safe surgical care, including patient identification, pre-procedure verification, and prevention of retained surgical items. Identify and report safety concerns proactively.
• Documentation: Accurately record perioperative care, patient progress, and any intraoperative events in the electronic medical record system.
• Professional Development and Leadership: Mentor and precept Clinical Nurse I staff and students, supporting their growth. Engage in continuing education, certifications, workshops, and quality improvement initiatives. Serve as a resource and advocate for best practices within surgical services.
• Emergency Preparedness: Respond decisively in critical situations such as cardiac arrest or massive hemorrhage, demonstrating advanced clinical skills and calm under pressure.

Qualifications

Experience

• Minimum of two years as a Registered Nurse in a high-acuity operating room environment.
• Proven ability to manage complex cases across multiple surgical specialties including Neuro, Spine, HEENT, General, GYN, Vascular, Thoracic, Minimally Invasive, Robotic, and Orthopedics.
• Scrub experience is highly preferred.

Competencies

• Technical Skills: Proficient with advanced surgical equipment and technology; strong knowledge of surgical anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology; expertise in sterile field management and surgical protocols.
• Critical Thinking: Ability to make rapid decisions in high-pressure situations; prioritize tasks effectively and adapt to dynamic surgical cases.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills; strong interpersonal abilities to foster a collaborative team environment.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred. Candidates with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and five years of high-acuity operating room experience may be considered in lieu of a BSN.

Licenses and Certifications

• Current Registered Nurse license valid in the state of California.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) and American Heart Association Healthcare Provider certification required.
• Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification required; must be obtained within 90 days of hire if not already held.
• Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR) certification is preferred.

All candidates must successfully complete a physical evaluation, drug screening, and background checks prior to employment.

Regional Context

This opportunity is located within a vibrant healthcare community serving the coastal region of the Pacific Northwest, known for its commitment to advanced surgical care and patient safety.