About the Role:

The Pre-Operative Registered Nurse (RN) plays a critical role in preparing patients for surgical procedures, ensuring their safety and comfort prior to anesthesia and surgery. This per diem position requires the nurse to conduct thorough pre-operative assessments, including reviewing medical histories, verifying consent forms, and educating patients about the surgical process. The RN collaborates closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate care and address any patient concerns or special needs. By meticulously following protocols and maintaining clear communication, the nurse helps to minimize risks and optimize surgical outcomes. Ultimately, this role is essential in delivering high-quality, patient-centered care in a fast-paced ambulatory surgical environment.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Current and valid Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of New Jersey.
• Graduation from an accredited nursing program.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
• Previous experience in a pre-operative or surgical nursing setting preferred but not mandatory.
• Ability to work per diem shifts with flexibility to accommodate surgical schedules.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in ambulatory surgical centers or outpatient surgical environments.
• Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems used in surgical care.
• Strong knowledge of perioperative nursing standards and patient safety protocols.
• Excellent communication and patient education skills.

Responsibilities:

• Perform comprehensive pre-operative assessments including vital signs, medical history review, and medication reconciliation.
• Verify patient identity, surgical site, and consent forms to ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Collaborate with the surgical team to communicate patient status and any special considerations prior to surgery.
• Document all pre-operative findings and interventions accurately.
• Monitor patients for any changes in condition while in the pre-operative area and escalate concerns promptly.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized pre-operative environment adhering to infection control policies.
• Assist with patient positioning and preparation immediately before surgery as needed.

Skills:

The Pre-Operative RN utilizes clinical assessment skills daily to evaluate patient readiness and identify potential risks before surgery. Effective communication skills are essential for educating patients and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure seamless care transitions. Attention to detail is critical when verifying documentation and adhering to safety protocols to prevent errors. Time management and adaptability allow the nurse to handle fluctuating surgical schedules and urgent patient needs efficiently. Additionally, proficiency with electronic health records supports accurate documentation and information sharing across the care continuum.