The Registered Nurse who specializes in Perioperative Nursing can function in
the primary circulator role or the scrub role. Perioperative Nursing courses are
available at Gulf Coast Community College in collaboration with local hospitals
and surgical Centers. Perioperative Nursing is often a very challenging and
rewarding field. Perioperative nurses may have job opportunities as a
circulator, scrub, educator, PACU nurse, Preop Holding nurse, ambulatory surgery
outpatient, medical sales professional, or manager.
The Perioperative nurse plans and directs nursing care for patients undergoing operative and other invasive procedures. Perioperative RNs work in all types of health care facilities, such as hospitals, ambulatory or outpatient surgery centers, and physician offices. The Perioperative nurse may delegate certain patient care tasks to suitably trained and competent unlicensed assistive personnel.
The professional organization is call the Association of PerOperative Registered Nurses (AORN). Nurses can sit for a certification examination with 2 years of experience which allows you to use the credentials CNOR. The organization provides standards and recommendations regarding Perioperative care of the patient. To learn more about the association and certification examination go to www.aorn.org.
Application Packet - for the Perioperative Certificate Program: Download and Complete packet for applying to the program including costs, application form, and costs. It is not required that you take both classes, the coop class provides hands on experience and is available if you decide that the OR is the place for you.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
NUR2293 Perioperative Nursing Theory is an online web based class that is offered at Gulf Coast Community College. It offers the didactic instruction regarding the specialized nursing skills required for surgical nursing in an operating room suite.
NUR 2949 Perioperative Cooperative Clinical class is a hands-on clinical experience which encompasses 150 volunteer hours completed in cooperation with the clinical facility.
Students who complete both courses successfully with a C or better will receive a Certificate in Perioperative Nursing.
Some hospitals require general nursing experience prior to entering the specialty area. Others will accept training as an acceptable alternative. Inquire at the facility that you are interested in working in.
FOR MORE INFORMATION Call Libby McNaron at 850-873-3551 or email at lmcnaron@gulfcoast.edu.