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What Do Operating Room Nurses Do?

In any hospital, operating rooms are scheduled with minimal time to clear out, clean up, and reset before the next procedure. Perioperative nurses make sure everything is ready for patient and doctor. In addition to setting up operating rooms, nurses assist doctors through procedures, setting out and passing tools, arranging hemostats to check blood flow, monitoring vital signs, and keeping the room in order. Through the duration of the case, they must be on their toes, ready for anything the surgeon needs, while maintaining a sterile environment. Operating room nurses also prepare patients for the operation, as well as provide support afterward.

Education & Training Required to Become an Operating Room Nurse

Most operating room nurses are registered nurses (RNs), and have an associate's degree or bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). The BSN is a four-year program and more expensive than a two-year associate's degree program in operating room nursing, but it can lead to better jobs with more room for advancement, including master's programs and administrative or directorship positions. Some online degree programs are available, but no matter your degree format, clinical experience is a must.

Typical Characteristics of an Operating Room Nurse

Because operating room nurses are in charge of maintaining a sterile environment, a certain level of organization and cleanliness are necessary. Perioperative nurses tend to be structured and methodical, often giving orders to renowned surgeons--and having those orders unequivocally obeyed. No-nonsense types and people who like things done a certain way would be perfect for the job, which also includes the unparalleled reward of seeing patients walk away well. Operating room nurses must be tough, capable of handling the remorse of defeat and moving on to the next surgery.

High Demand for Operating Room Nurses

In 2008, RNs earned a median annual salary of more than $62,000. Because it's a high-stress occupation, there tends to be higher than average turnover for perioperative nurses, and expertise is coveted. With advanced degrees, operating room nurses can make more money and be in high demand, and the job usually comes with respect and prestige. For anyone who wants to be on the cutting edge of a medical field, an occupation as an operating room nurse would be perfect.