Registered Nurse - Operating Room

Overview

Summary: The Operating Room (OR) Registered Nurse (RN) is accountable for patient outcomes resulting from the nursing care for patients undergoing surgical or invasive procedures. The role emphasizes individual growth and development in practice with increasing self-direction. The nurse applies principles and theory with a focus on applying critical thinking skills in practice.

Basic Requirements:

• English Language Proficiency
• Proficiency in basic written and spoken English in accordance with 38 U.S.C. 7403(f)
• Graduate of a school of professional nursing approved by an accredited agency (ACEN or CCNE)
• Option for license eligibility through a master s level bridge program (approval to practice temporarily before bridge program completion)
• Upon State licensure, temporary appointment with potential conversion to permanent upon bridge program completion
• Reference VA Handbook 5005 - Appendix G6
• For graduates of foreign nursing schools: current full, active, and unrestricted registration acceptable for appointment
• Credit for foreign nursing education higher than an associate degree requires formal degree equivalency validation from a recognized agency (e.g., ICD)
• Current full, active, unrestricted RN licensure in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia
• Graduate Nurse Technician (GNT) exception: may be appointed at entry step on a 120-day temporary appointment while pursuing licensure (may be extended up to two years)
• Grade determinations include practice dimensions and education requirements as outlined in the VA qualification standards
• Multiple pathways for Nurse I, Nurse II, and Nurse III progression based on education and experience
• Note:
  
  Foreign education programs/degrees are not creditable as related degrees
• Reference: Visit https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). Standards/ for more information
• Physical requirements:
  
  moderate lifting and carrying, varied lifting, standing, walking, reaching and coordination as applicable to perioperative nursing

• Plan, direct, and coordinate care for every patient undergoing operative and other invasive procedures, respecting the patient and recognizing the contribution of each team member
• Function proficiently in both circulator and scrub roles within the OR and be competent in all surgical specialties served
• Maintain knowledge of AORN standards, VHA directives, and SOPs
• Ensure sterility of the surgical field and safe use of instrumentation and equipment
• Protect the patient from injury from chemical, electrical, mechanical, and thermal sources; perform instrument counts; participate in Time Out and implant/tissue product documentation procedures
• Manage specimens, administer medications safely, maintain wound and tissue perfusion, and protect the patient from surgical site infection
• Ensure comprehensive, timely, accurate documentation of perioperative care in the electronic health record
• Maintain knowledge of reusable instruments, equipment, devices, and supplies used in the clinical area
• Read and follow SOPs for reusable medical equipment; consult Sterile Processing and/or Infection Control as needed
• On-call during off-tour hours to provide care for emergencies
• Salary and benefits: VA offers a comprehensive total rewards package, including pay, paid time off, retirement, insurance, licensure support, and work schedule information
• Relocation/Recruitment incentives may be authorized for highly qualified individuals
• Change of Station (PCS) not authorized

• Work Schedule:
  
  Monday–Friday, 7:00 am–3:00 pm with rotating on-call requirements
• Virtual/telework:
  Not applicable