Perioperative nursing

Perioperative nursing is a specialized area of nursing that involves providing care for patients before (preoperative), during (intraoperative), and after (postoperative) surgery. This field requires a unique set of skills and knowledge, as perioperative nurses must be able to anticipate and respond to a wide range of patient needs and surgical complications.

Preoperative Care

In the preoperative phase, perioperative nurses are responsible for preparing the patient for surgery. This includes conducting a thorough patient assessment, educating the patient about the procedure, and ensuring that all necessary tests and procedures have been completed. The nurse also coordinates with the surgical team to plan the operation and ensure that all necessary equipment and supplies are available.

Intraoperative Care

During the operation, the perioperative nurse serves as a critical member of the surgical team. The nurse may function in a variety of roles, including scrub nurse, circulating nurse, or Registered Nurse First Assist (RNFA). The scrub nurse is responsible for maintaining the sterile field, while the circulating nurse manages the overall environment in the operating room. The RNFA works directly with the surgeon, providing assistance during the operation.

Postoperative Care

After the surgery, the perioperative nurse provides postoperative care, monitoring the patient's vital signs, managing pain, and assessing for complications. The nurse also educates the patient and family about postoperative care at home, including wound care, medication management, and signs of complications.

Education and Training

Perioperative nurses are registered nurses who have received additional training in surgical nursing. This training may be obtained through a formal perioperative nursing program or on-the-job training in a surgical setting. Many perioperative nurses also choose to become certified through the Competency & Credentialing Institute (CCI), which offers the Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR) credential.

Challenges and Opportunities

Perioperative nursing is a demanding field that requires a high level of skill, knowledge, and adaptability. However, it also offers many opportunities for professional growth and specialization. With advances in surgical technology and techniques, the role of the perioperative nurse is continually evolving, offering new challenges and opportunities for those in the field.

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