RN Surgery - job 2 of 6

As an RN Surgery at CommonSpirit Health, your primary responsibilities include preparing patients for surgical procedures, assisting the surgical team during operations, and providing preoperative and postoperative care. You'll handle consent forms, conduct assessments, ensure that all surgical instruments and equipment are in place, and keep families updated during the procedure.

To qualify for the RN Surgery position at CommonSpirit Health, candidates must have a minimum of five years of experience as a Registered Nurse, with three years specifically in a Circulator Role in an OR at a designated Trauma Center. Current licensing as a Registered Nurse in California, as well as certifications in BLS, ACLS, PALS, and NRP, are also necessary. Additional certifications like EKG and CNOR are preferred.

Critical skills for an RN Surgery position at CommonSpirit Health include excellent communication abilities, strong multitasking capabilities, and the capacity to remain calm and focused under pressure. You will need to exercise good judgment in emergency situations while demonstrating compassion and care for patients.

CommonSpirit Health supports its RN Surgical Nurses by providing a range of benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plan contributions, paid time off, and benefits for adoption assistance. They focus on not only delivering exceptional patient care but also ensuring the well-being of their staff.

The work environment for an RN Surgery at St Mary Medical Center is dynamic and collaborative, set in a fast-paced surgical unit where teamwork is essential. Nurses work closely with surgeons and other medical staff to provide the highest level of patient care, all while being part of a community dedicated to social justice and health equity.

When preparing a patient for surgery, I start by discussing the procedure with them and addressing any questions or concerns. I carefully review their medical history, verify consent forms, and conduct a thorough assessment to ensure they are ready. It’s important to create a calm environment and provide reassurance throughout the process.

In my previous roles, I have had extensive hands-on experience in the operating room, assisting surgeons by providing the right instruments at the right time, maintaining a sterile environment, and monitoring patient vitals throughout the procedure. My focus has always been on ensuring patient safety and comfort.

Managing stress during surgery involves maintaining focus and remaining composed. I prioritize organization and preparation before the procedure to minimize surprises. If unexpected situations arise, I rely on my training and experience to make quick, informed decisions while maintaining clear communication with my team.

I implement the nursing process by first assessing patients' needs, planning appropriate care based on diagnoses, and executing interventions such as monitoring vital signs and administering medications. After surgery, I evaluate the patients’ recovery and adjust their care plans as needed.

Ensuring patient safety in the operating room seems paramount. I achieve this by strictly following protocols for sterility, verifying patient identity, and ensuring all surgical instruments are accounted for before and after the procedure. Consistent communication with the surgical team is also vital.

In one instance, we faced a sudden drop in a patient’s blood pressure during surgery. I immediately alerted the surgeon, initiated necessary interventions per our emergency protocols, and provided continuous updates to the team while monitoring the patient’s vitals meticulously until stability was restored.

I stay current by attending workshops and seminars related to surgical nursing, participating in online courses, and engaging with professional nursing organizations. Additionally, I regularly read journals and articles to keep informed about the latest techniques and best practices.

Communication with a patient’s family is an integral part of my role as an RN Surgery. I ensure that I provide timely updates about the patient’s status before, during, and after the procedure, and make myself available to address any questions or concerns they may have throughout the process.

Collaboration in surgery involves clear communication with surgeons, anesthetists, and other nursing staff. I actively participate in team discussions, ensuring that each member’s input is valued and that everyone is aware of their roles for our collective goal of providing patient-centered care.

The most rewarding aspect of working as an RN in surgery is the opportunity to make a significant impact on a patient’s health and recovery. Being part of a life-saving team and knowing the role I play in ensuring patient safety and comfort throughout the surgical experience is incredibly fulfilling.