Learn about the role of perioperative nurses and how to become one in this comprehensive guide.
Perioperative nurses are essential healthcare professionals who play a crucial role in patient care before, during, and after surgical procedures.
They work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other medical staff to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes. For example, a perioperative nurse might prepare a patient for surgery, assist during the operation, and provide post-operative care and education.
If you’re interested in a nursing career combining technical skills with patient advocacy in a fast-paced environment, perioperative nursing may be the perfect fit. Read on to learn more about what perioperative nurses do, the education required, and typical salaries in this field.
What Does a Perioperative Nurse Do?
Perioperative nurses are specialized healthcare professionals who work with patients throughout the surgical process. Their responsibilities are divided into three phases: preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care.
They ensure patient safety, maintain a sterile environment, assist surgeons, and emotionally support patients and their families.
While their primary focus is on surgical patients, perioperative nurses also collaborate with various healthcare professionals to coordinate care and contribute to the overall success of surgical procedures. They are vital in implementing evidence-based practices and maintaining quality standards in the operating room.
Key Responsibilities
- Conducting preoperative assessments and preparing patients for surgery
- Assisting surgeons during procedures and managing surgical equipment
- Monitoring patients’ vital signs and responding to emergencies
- Educating patients and families about pre-and post-operative care
- Ensuring proper sterilization and infection control procedures
- Coordinating with other healthcare team members for seamless patient care
Career Traits
- Attention to detail
- Ability to work well under pressure
- Strong communication skills
- Technical proficiency with medical equipment
- Empathy and patient advocacy
- Adaptability in fast-paced environments
Where Do Perioperative Nurses Work?
Perioperative nurses primarily work in hospital operating rooms, but their expertise is valuable in various healthcare settings. As the demand for surgical procedures continues to grow, career opportunities for perioperative nurses are expanding into diverse environments.
Hospitals
Hospital-based perioperative nurses work in main operating rooms, ambulatory surgery units, and post-anesthesia care units (PACUs). They collaborate with surgical teams to provide comprehensive care for patients undergoing various procedures, from routine operations to complex surgeries.
Ambulatory Surgery Centers
These outpatient facilities specialize in same-day surgical procedures. Perioperative nurses in this setting focus on efficient patient care and quick recovery, often dealing with healthier patients undergoing less invasive surgeries.
Specialty Clinics
Some perioperative nurses work in specialty clinics that focus on specific types of surgeries, such as ophthalmology, orthopedics, or plastic surgery. In these settings, nurses develop expertise in particular procedures and patient populations.
Why Become a Perioperative Nurse?
Perioperative nursing offers a unique blend of technical expertise, patient care, and teamwork. While the work can be challenging and fast-paced, it provides numerous opportunities for professional growth and personal satisfaction. Perioperative nurses are critical in patient outcomes and often find their work highly rewarding.
How to Become a Perioperative Nurse
To become a perioperative nurse, you must first become a registered nurse (RN). This requires a two-year Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). After completing your degree, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain your nursing license.
While not mandatory, many employers prefer or require additional certification for perioperative nurses. The primary certification for this specialty is the CNOR (Certified Nurse Operating Room) credential, offered by the Competency & Credentialing Institute (CCI). To be eligible for the CNOR exam, you must have:
- A current, unrestricted RN license
- A minimum of 2 years and 2,400 hours of experience in perioperative nursing, with at least 1,200 hours in the intraoperative setting
Continuing education and ongoing professional development are crucial in perioperative nursing to stay current with advances in surgical techniques and technology.
Perioperative Nurse Concentrations and Specializations
Perioperative nursing offers various subspecialties, allowing nurses to focus on specific areas of interest or expertise:
- Surgical First Assistant: These nurses work directly with surgeons, providing advanced assistance during procedures.
- Robotics Nurse: Specializing in robot-assisted surgeries, these nurses operate and troubleshoot sophisticated surgical equipment.
- Pediatric Perioperative Nurse: Focusing on the unique needs of children undergoing surgery, from infants to adolescents.
- Cardiovascular Perioperative Nurse: Specializing in heart and vascular surgeries, including open-heart and minimally invasive techniques.
How Much Do Perioperative Nurses Make?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for all registered nurses is $77,600 as of May 2021. However, perioperative nurses often earn higher salaries due to their specialized skills and the demanding nature of their work.
The Association of Perioperative Registered Nurses (AORN) reports that the average salary for perioperative nurses ranges from $67,800 to $101,000, depending on experience, education, certification, and geographic location.
Salary may vary based on your specific role, facility, and experience. California, Hawaii, Oregon, the District of Columbia, and Alaska are the states with the highest pay for registered nurses.
The BLS projects that registered nursing jobs will grow 6% from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
However, the demand for perioperative nurses may be even higher due to the increasing number of surgical procedures each year and the aging population requiring more medical interventions.
Conclusion
Perioperative nursing offers a challenging and rewarding career path for those interested in surgical patient care. With opportunities for specialization, competitive salaries, and the chance to significantly impact patient outcomes, it’s an excellent choice for nurses seeking a dynamic and fulfilling profession. As healthcare continues to advance, the role of perioperative nurses will remain crucial in ensuring safe and effective surgical care.
References
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. (2022). Occupational Outlook Handbook, Registered Nurses. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm
- Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN). (2022). Salary Survey. Retrieved from https://www.aorn.org/career-center/salary-survey
- Foran, P. (2016). Perioperative nursing – still a great career choice. Journal of Perioperative Nursing, 29(1), 3-4.
- Rothrock, J. C., & McEwen, D. R. (2018). Alexander’s Care of the Patient in Surgery (16th ed.). Elsevier Health Sciences.
