RN, OR, First - Jewish Hospital

As an RN in the Operating Room at Jewish Hospital, your primary responsibilities will include providing direct patient care before, during, and after surgical procedures. This involves collaborating with surgeons, managing patient assessments, and ensuring proper documentation throughout the surgical process. You'll also play an integral role in maintaining a sterile environment and assisting with the overall workflow of the surgical team. With exposure to a variety of specialties, you'll develop a well-rounded skill set tailored to the needs of each patient.

To qualify for the RN, OR position at Jewish Hospital, you must be licensed or eligible for a nursing license in Kentucky. A Basic Life Support (BLS) certification accredited by the American Heart Association is required, and an Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification may be necessary depending on the specific unit. While an Associate’s degree from an accredited institution is required, a Bachelor’s degree in nursing is preferred, which can enhance your understanding and effectiveness in this vital role.

Jewish Hospital offers a variety of competitive benefits for RNs in the Operating Room, including paid vacation, sick days, and holidays, along with a robust 401K plan with employer match. Additionally, you'll have access to free tuition for yourself and your family members at UofL, which can significantly enhance your career and educational aspirations. These benefits, combined with a supportive workplace culture, create a fulfilling environment for our nursing staff.

At Jewish Hospital, we believe in lifelong learning and professional growth for our staff. RNs in the OR are encouraged to participate in continuing education programs, attend workshops, and access clinical training sessions that keep them up-to-date with the latest best practices and technologies in surgical care. Our collaborative work culture also fosters mentorship opportunities where experienced nurses guide newcomers, enhancing their skills and confidence in the Operating Room.

The work environment for RNs in the Operating Room at Jewish Hospital is fast-paced and collaborative, with a focus on team-based patient care. You'll have the opportunity to work alongside a diverse group of healthcare professionals, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, and surgical technologists. The atmosphere is supported by a culture of respect, innovation, and compassion, as we collectively prioritize delivering excellent care to our patients and their families.

Interviewers want to gauge your passion for nursing and the OR environment. Focus on your desire to make a difference in patients' lives, your fascination with surgery, and how working in a fast-paced environment excites you. Share personal experiences that drive your passion for this specialty.

It's crucial to demonstrate your ability to remain calm under pressure. Share specific strategies such as focusing on clear communication, following established protocols, and maintaining a patient-first mindset. Include an example from previous experiences where you effectively managed a stressful situation.

Emphasize the importance of clear communication, mutual respect, and collaborative decision-making in the surgical team. You can discuss how effective teamwork enhances patient outcomes and how you contribute positively to a team-oriented environment.

Employers appreciate honesty and accountability. Select a genuine incident and explain what led to the mistake, how you addressed it, the steps you took to rectify the situation, and what you learned from it to avoid similar issues in the future.

Share your commitment to continuous education by discussing resources like workshops, online courses, and membership in professional organizations. Explain how staying current directly benefits patient care and your practice as an OR Nurse.

Discuss specific infection control protocols such as hand hygiene, proper sterilization of instruments, and maintaining a sterile environment. Highlight the significance of these measures in ensuring patient safety and positive surgical outcomes.

Emphasize the importance of educating patients and their families about the surgical process. Discuss strategies such as thorough explanations, answering questions, and addressing concerns, ensuring they feel involved and informed.

Explain your familiarity with EHR systems, focusing on how you utilize them for documentation, medication administration, and accessing patient histories during surgeries. Share any experiences where your EHR skills improved patient care.

Express your commitment to patient safety and comfort by discussing your strategies for advocating for patients. This may include voicing concerns about their well-being, ensuring their needs are met, and maintaining open lines of communication with the surgical team.

Illuminate your understanding of Jewish Hospital's reputation for excellence in healthcare. Mention specific programs, values, or innovations that resonate with you and align with your career goals and personal values, demonstrating thoughtful research and genuine interest.