Operating room (OR) nursing jobs involve the care for patients before, during and after surgery. Also known as perioperative nursing, OR nurse job duties include patient education, circulating nurse and/or scrub nurse and potentially RN first assistant or operating room director (with additional training). Perioperative nurses work in every type of healthcare facility, making travel nursing job opportunities abundant.
Operating room nursing jobs require the successful completion of certificate programs qualifying RNs for perioperative nursing positions. Preparation in critical care units and emergency rooms is also encouraged to secure OR nurse employment opportunities.
OR nurse salary rates vary based on experience, location and training, and currently average approximately $84,200 per year, according to the 2012 Nurse Salary Survey from ADVANCE for Nurses. A higher OR nurse salary may be available depending on advanced skills and/or specializations.
