What Is an Operating Room Nurse?
An operating room (OR) nurse is a perioperative registered nurse who helps deliver safe, coordinated care in surgical settings. OR nurses work closely with surgeons, anesthesia providers, surgical technologists, and other team members to prepare patients, equipment, and the operating room for procedures.
Depending on the role, an OR nurse may circulate during surgery, assist with sterile procedures, position patients, manage supplies and equipment, document care, and monitor the surgical environment. Strong attention to detail, communication, organization, and the ability to anticipate what comes next are essential in the OR.