The Operating Room (OR) Nurse delivers safe, high‑quality perioperative nursing care to patients throughout the pre‑operative, intra‑operative, and post‑operative phases of surgical procedures. The role involves thorough patient assessment and preparation prior to surgery, including verification of patient identity, consent, surgical site, and procedure, as well as completion of pre‑operative safety checks in line with surgical safety standards.
During surgery, the OR Nurse functions as a Scrub Nurse and/or Circulating Nurse, maintaining strict aseptic technique and a sterile environment at all times. The nurse assists surgeons and anesthesiologists by anticipating procedural needs, safely handling surgical instruments and equipment, monitoring patient condition, and ensuring accurate surgical counts in accordance with hospital policy.
Post‑operatively, the OR Nurse supports safe patient transfer to recovery areas, participates in clinical handover and documentation, and ensures proper cleaning, disinfection, and preparation of the operating theatre for subsequent cases.
- Prepare patients, operating rooms, instruments, and equipment prior to surgical procedures.
- Perform duties as a Scrub Nurse and/or Circulating Nurse, ensuring strict adherence to aseptic techniques.
- Assist surgeons and anesthesiologists during procedures by anticipating needs and responding promptly.
- Maintain accurate counts of instruments, needles, and sponges to ensure patient safety.
- Monitor patient condition during surgery and respond appropriately to changes or emergencies.
- Ensure compliance with infection prevention, surgical safety checklists, and hospital protocols.
- Support post‑operative handover and ensure proper documentation and continuity of care.
- Participate in cleaning, disinfection, and preparation of the operating theatre between cases.
- Work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and the multidisciplinary surgical team.
- Communicate effectively to support safe surgical outcomes and patient-centered care.
- Maintain accurate documentation and comply with regulatory, ethical, and hospital standards.
- Demonstrates ability to navigate Malaffi accurately and efficiently.
- Uses the individualized, integrated plan of care to guide and prioritize care throughout the episode incorporating discharge planning and setting measurable goals daily which are transparent to the patient.
- Assumes accountability and responsibility for own practice and does not carry out tasks beyond level of competence.
- Utilizes evidence-based practice in the provision of care
- Identifies significant changes in patient condition, initiates appropriate action and reports to immediate supervisor or physician as appropriate.
- Bachelor Degree in Nursing; or
- Associate degree in Nursing from Canada or USA with minimum two (2) years course duration and Successful completion of the National exam:
✓ USA: NCLEX - RN
✓ Canada: Licensing Exam
- DOH License or Eligibility
- Minimum two (2) years clinical experience post qualification
