To act as patient advocate, providing continuity of care designed to meet individual patient needs through collaboration with other members of the health care team. Supports the philosophy, objectives and goals. The Circulating Nurse will assess the perioperative needs of individual patients including but not limited to adult, pediatric, neonatal and adolescent patients.

QUALIFICATIONS:

State Licensure as a Registered Nurse is required, for the State of Texas.
Demonstrates ability to stand and/or walk at least five hours per day.
Demonstrates ability to lift and/or carry over 20 pounds on a regular basis.
Demonstrates ability to push/pull over 25 pounds on a regular basis.

OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE: Category I exposure to bloodborne pathogens, frequent exposure to chemical hazards and may encounter radiation hazards.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Prepares room, equipment, and supplies needed for the procedure, including anesthesia supplies.
2. Opens sterile packs and supplies, using Surgeon's preference card for specific requests.
3. A preoperative assessment is performed that includes:
3.1 Assess the level of consciousness and color and integrity of the skin.
3.2 Identify patient and introduce self to patient.
3.3 Determine a plan of care based on individual needs.
3.4 Necessary patient teaching will be done at this time.
4. In addition: checks the chart, confirm consent, history and physical, laboratory results, allergies, and confirm the operative site.
5. Brings the patient to the Operating Room suite and assist the patient to the operating bed after breaking off the gurney.

6. Positions patient for safe functional alignment, exposure of surgical site and to provide physical support.
7. Effectively manages human resources.
8. Informs front desk of progress and Post-Anesthesia Care Unit, other facility unit and/orfront desk prior to transfer.
9. Assists Anesthesiologist with monitor leads, blood pressure cuff, and oximeter placement and remain at patient's side during induction and positioning.
10. Prepares patient's operative site, again confirming procedure with Surgeon's history and physical.
11. Directs overhead spotlights and connects equipment such as electrocautery, suction and power equipment.
12. Performs sponge and needle counts, if required. Obtains any sterile supplies needed throughout procedure.
13. Maintains an aseptic-controlled environment.
14. Follows proper procedures regarding exposure to Category 1 tasks.
15. Follows proper procedures for handling hazardous waste materials.
16. Documents information required.
17. Follows appropriate Pre-Op/Admitting policies and procedures.