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 State 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, pre-op 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 for perioperative nursing is called the Association of periOperative 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. 

Information and Application Packet

Perioperative Nursing Certificate Program - Print and complete an application packet for the program.  The packet includes tuition 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

NUR2290 - Perioperative Nursing Theory is an online web-based class that is offered at Gulf Coast State College. It offers the didactic instruction regarding the specialized nursing skills required for surgical nursing in an operating room suite.

NUR2949 - 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 where you are interested in working.

For more information, please contactl Libby McNaron at (850) 873-3551 or email at lmcnaron@gulfcoast.edu.