The Orthopedic Spine Nurse (RN) is responsible for delivering high-quality, patient-centered care to individuals undergoing evaluation and treatment for spine and musculoskeletal conditions in an orthopedic setting. This role emphasizes patient education, care coordination, and clinical excellence across the preoperative and postoperative continuum.

The nurse plays a critical role in preparing patients for surgery, promoting safe recovery at home, preventing complications, and supporting patients in returning to functional mobility and activity.

Key Responsibilities

Patient Care & Education

• Provide comprehensive preoperative and postoperative nursing care for spine patients.
• Educate patients and families on surgical preparation, recovery expectations, wound care, medications, mobility precautions, and complication prevention.
• Build patient confidence for same-day discharge and independent recovery at home.
• Reinforce adherence to treatment plans and follow up on patient progress.

Clinical Assessment

• Perform thorough orthopedic and neurological assessments.
• Monitor for signs of complications such as infection, blood clots, medication reactions, or impaired healing.
• Apply strong clinical judgment to triage patient concerns and escalate when appropriate.

Care Coordination

• Collaborate with physician, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, medical assistants and other healthcare professionals to ensure seamless care.
• Coordinate preoperative requirements including testing, medical clearances, and patient readiness.
• Support transitions across care settings when hospitalization is required.

Patient Advocacy & Relationship Building

• Serve as a primary clinical resource and liaison for patients throughout their care journey.
• Develop trusting relationships that encourage engagement and positive outcomes.
• Promote patient safety, comfort, and individualized care.

Clinical Knowledge & Professional Practice

• Maintain strong knowledge of musculoskeletal anatomy, spine conditions, surgical procedures, and related medical therapies.
• Understand the broader medical implications of orthopedic conditions, including autoimmune disorders, metabolic bone diseases, and cardiovascular risks.
• Participate in ongoing education to remain current with orthopedic best practices and evolving care models.

Work Environment

• Orthopedic clinic specializing in spine care.
• Fast-paced setting focused on efficient, high-quality patient experiences.
• Care for generally active patients motivated to return to prior levels of function.

Why Join our Team?

Orthopedic nursing offers the opportunity to guide patients through transformative procedures that restore mobility and quality of life. You will serve as an educator, advocate, and clinical leaders within a collaborative care model designed to achieve exceptional outcomes.

Qualifications

• Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in good standing in the State of Utah.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred.
• Orthopedic Nursing Certification (ONC) preferred or willingness to obtain.
• Minimum of 2–3 years of orthopedic, spine, surgical, or nursing experience preferred.
• Strong clinical assessment and patient education skills.
• Excellent communication and interdisciplinary collaboration abilities.

Preferred Attributes

• Passion for musculoskeletal health, movement science, and functional recovery.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced outpatient environment.
• Proactive, organized, and detail-oriented.
• Demonstrated commitment to patient-centered care.
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.