How to become an OR nurse

How to become an OR Nurse

If you're interested in becoming an OR nurse, here are the steps you can follow:

• Obtain a nursing degree: To become an OR nurse, you must first obtain a nursing degree. There are two main types of nursing degrees: an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN). An ADN program typically takes two years to complete, while a BSN program takes four years. It is recommended to pursue a BSN degree as it provides a more comprehensive education and more job opportunities.
• Obtain a nursing license: After completing your nursing degree, you must obtain a nursing license in the state where you plan to work. To obtain a license, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This exam tests your knowledge and skills in nursing practice, including patient care, communication, and pharmacology.
• Gain experience as a registered nurse: Before transitioning to an OR nurse, you need to gain experience as a registered nurse (RN). This can be done by working in a hospital, clinical setting, or other healthcare facility. It is recommended to have at least two years of experience before transitioning to an OR nurse.
• Complete an OR nurse residency or training program: Many hospitals and healthcare facilities offer OR nurse residency or training programs. These programs provide specialized training in perioperative nursing and prepare nurses for working in the OR. The length of the program can vary but typically lasts several months to a year. The program may include classroom instruction, simulation training, and hands-on experience in the OR.
• Obtain certification: Although certification is not required, it can improve job prospects and earning potential. The Certification Board for Perioperative Nursing (CBPN) offers certification for perioperative nurses. To be eligible for certification, you must have a current nursing license and meet specific education and experience requirements. The exam covers topics such as preoperative care, intraoperative care, and postoperative care.
• Maintain continuing education: OR nurses must keep up-to-date with the latest advancements in healthcare and surgery. Continuing education is required to maintain certification and keep your nursing license. This can be done through attending conferences, seminars, or completing online courses.

Certifications
To support their professional growth and development, there are several professional associations that OR nurses can join. These associations offer a range of benefits, including access to education and training, networking opportunities, and resources for staying up-to-date on the latest advancements in surgical care.

• CNOR - Certified Nurse Operating Room: This certification is offered by both the Certification Board for Perioperative Nursing (CBPN) and the Competency and Credentialing Institute (CCI). CNOR certification is valid for five years and requires ongoing professional development.
• CRNFA - Certified Registered Nurse First Assistant: This certification is also offered by CCI and recognizes OR nurses who have advanced education and training in surgical assisting. CRNFA certification is valid for five years and requires ongoing professional development.
• CNAMB - Certified Nurse Ambulatory Surgery: This certification is offered by the American Board of Perianesthesia Nursing Certification (ABPANC) and recognizes nurses who provide care for patients before and after ambulatory surgery. CNAMB certification is valid for five years and requires ongoing professional development.
• CSSM - Certified Surgical Services Manager: This certification is offered by the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) and recognizes managers who oversee perioperative services, including ORs. CSSM certification is valid for three years and requires ongoing professional development.
• CPAN - Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse: This certification is also offered by ABPANC and recognizes nurses who care for patients recovering from anesthesia. CPAN certification is valid for five years and requires ongoing professional development.

Associations
Here are some professional associations for operating room nurses:

• Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) - This is the largest association of perioperative nurses in the world. AORN provides education, networking opportunities, and resources for OR nurses.
• American Nurses Association (ANA) - The ANA is the largest professional organization representing registered nurses in the United States. It advocates for the nursing profession and provides resources for nurses to advance their careers.
• Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses (AMSN) - AMSN is a professional organization for medical-surgical nurses, which includes OR nurses. It provides education, certification, and networking opportunities.
• American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) - AACN is a professional organization for nurses who work in critical care settings, including OR nurses. It provides education, certification, and resources for critical care nurses.
• Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) - APIC is a professional organization for infection preventionists, including OR nurses. It provides education and resources for preventing healthcare-associated infections.
• International Federation of Perioperative Nurses (IFPN) - IFPN is an international organization for perioperative nurses. It provides education, networking opportunities, and resources for perioperative nurses around the world.