What is an OR Circulator Job?
An Operating Room (OR) Circulator is a healthcare professional who works in the operating room and is responsible for coordinating activities during surgery. They act as a liaison between the surgical team and other healthcare professionals in the operating room. OR circulators are also known as perioperative nurses or surgical nurses.
What Usually do in this Position?
OR circulators have a variety of responsibilities, including preparing the operating room for surgery, ensuring that all necessary equipment is available, and monitoring the patient's vital signs. They are also responsible for maintaining a sterile environment in the operating room and ensuring that the surgical team follows proper sterilization procedures. The OR circulator is also responsible for documenting the surgical procedure and ensuring that all necessary supplies are available. They also assist in positioning the patient on the operating table and preparing them for anesthesia.
Top 5 Skills for Position
- Attention to Detail
- Strong Communication Skills
- Critical Thinking Abilities
- Ability to Work Under Pressure
- Strong Organizational Skills
How to Become this Type of Specialist
To become an OR circulator, you must have a nursing degree and be licensed as a registered nurse. Many hospitals also require certification in perioperative nursing (CNOR). After completing nursing school, you can obtain experience in perioperative nursing by working in the operating room as a scrub nurse or circulating nurse. You can also obtain additional certification in areas such as anesthesia, surgical technology, or infection control to expand your knowledge and expertise in the field of perioperative nursing.
Average Salary
The average salary for an OR circulator in the United States is $75,000 per year. Salaries can vary depending on the location, experience, and certifications of the nurse.
Roles and Types
OR circulators can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, surgery centers, and outpatient clinics. They can also specialize in various areas of surgery, such as neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, or cardiovascular surgery. OR circulators can also advance their careers by becoming nurse managers, nurse educators, or nurse anesthetists.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
The top five states with the most OR circulator jobs in the United States are California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania. However, the demand for OR circulators is increasing in many other states as well.
What are the Typical Tools?
OR circulators use a variety of tools and equipment, including surgical instruments, monitoring equipment, and computer systems. They also use personal protective equipment such as gowns, masks, and gloves to maintain a sterile environment in the operating room.
In Conclusion
OR circulators play a vital role in ensuring that surgical procedures are carried out safely and efficiently. They require a combination of technical skills, communication skills, and critical thinking abilities to be successful in this role. With the increasing demand for perioperative nurses, becoming an OR circulator can be a rewarding and fulfilling career choice.