Job Description

Job Summary 

The Circulator is a Registered Nurse responsible for the delivery and documentation of patient care during the intra-operative period. This role involves assessing the physiological and emotional needs of patients, planning and implementing nursing care, and ensuring a safe and sterile environment throughout surgical procedures. The Circulator collaborates with the surgical team to maintain patient safety and optimize outcomes. 

Essential Functions

Performs preoperative patient assessments, develops nursing care plans, and evaluates the effectiveness of interventions, documenting findings in the medical record. Ensures compliance with Universal Precautions, aseptic techniques, and infection prevention protocols to maintain a sterile surgical environment. Assists in setting up the operating room for procedures, including opening supplies, setting up equipment, and verifying functionality. Prepares patients for surgery by positioning them ergonomically, performing skin antisepsis, verifying patient identity, confirming the procedure and site, and assisting with patient transfers. Supports anesthesia personnel during intubation/extubation, fluid management, administration of blood products, and maintaining patient thermoregulation. Conducts surgical counts for instruments, sponges, and sharps, documenting findings to ensure accountability and patient safety. Handles surgical specimens appropriately and ensures accurate labeling, documentation, and transfer to pathology as needed. Observes and enforces aseptic practices during procedures, taking corrective action to address breaches in technique. Monitors intra-operative patient safety, including proper positioning, equipment use, medication handling, and management of chemicals and solutions. Participates in the handover of patient care, ensuring seamless communication and continuity of care post-operatively. Assists in the clean-up and turnover of operating rooms following procedures, ensuring proper disposal of used supplies and sharps. Engages in ongoing communication with the surgical team to adapt to patient needs and procedural changes. Performs other duties as assigned. Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

1-3 years of perioperative nursing experience required Prior experience as a Circulator preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Strong clinical knowledge of surgical procedures and intra-operative patient care. Proficiency in aseptic technique, Universal Precautions, and infection prevention protocols. Effective communication and collaboration skills to work with interdisciplinary teams. Strong organizational and critical-thinking skills to manage patient safety and procedural demands. Attention to detail for accurate documentation and surgical counts. Ability to respond quickly and effectively to intra-operative emergencies or changes in patient condition.

Licenses and Certifications

RN - Registered Nurse - State Licensure and/or Compact State Licensure required BCLS - Basic Life Support required ACLS - Advanced Cardiac Life Support required CNOR - Certified Operating Room Nurse preferred