Registered Nurse (Pre-Op)- (Full Time

This position is eligible for a commencement bonus of $7,500.00, with 50% payable at or around the hire date and the remaining 50% payable after six (6) months of continuous employment.

Position Title:
Perioperative Registered Nurse (OR Circulator & PACU Nurse)

Department:Surgical Services

Reports To:Director of Perioperative Services

Status:Full time

The Perioperative Registered Nurse functions in both the intraoperative (Circulator) and postoperative (PACU) phases of surgical care. This dual-role nurse is responsible for coordinating and delivering safe, high-quality, evidence-based nursing care to patients undergoing surgical procedures. The role requires flexibility, critical thinking, and collaboration with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and the multidisciplinary team to ensure optimal patient outcomes throughout the surgical continuum.

Serve as the patient advocate throughout the surgical procedure

Perform and document preoperative verification and surgical time-out

Ensure the sterility of the operative field and adherence to aseptic technique

Anticipate and provide necessary supplies and equipment during surgery

Collaborate with surgical and anesthesia teams to optimize workflow and patient safety

Manage intraoperative documentation, including counts, specimens, implants, and events

Respond to intraoperative emergencies and support the team during urgent situations

Receive and monitor patients emerging from anesthesia following surgery

Conduct rapid physical assessments including airway, vital signs, neurologic status, and surgical sites

Manage post-op pain, nausea, and hemodynamic stability with medications and interventions

Provide emotional support and post-op education to patients and families

Coordinate patient transfer to the next level of care or discharge

Accurately document patient recovery and maintain safety protocols throughout stay

Licensure:Current, active RN license in the state of practice

Education:ADN required; BSN preferred

Certifications:

BLS and ACLS (required)

PALS (preferred)

CNOR and/or CPAN/CAPA certification (preferred but not required)

Experience:

Minimum 1 year of nursing experience in PACU, OR, critical care, or emergency nursing

New graduates considered if enrolled in a perioperative training program

Strong assessment and critical thinking skills in fast-paced environments

Proficient in sterile technique, patient positioning, and perioperative safety standards

Excellent communication and teamwork abilities

Competent with EMR systems and medical equipment (e.g., monitors, infusion pumps, ventilators)

Ability to adapt to changing situations and respond effectively in emergencies

Ability to stand and walk for prolonged periods

Lift, move, and position patients and equipment (up to 50 lbs)

Exposure to blood borne pathogens, radiation, and surgical chemicals

Must wear PPE including surgical masks, lead aprons, and protective eyewear as appropriate

Patient advocacy and safety

Collaboration and interdisciplinary communication

Quality improvement and regulatory compliance

Cultural competence and ethical care

Lifelong learning and professional development

Equal Opportunity Employer
NCH and AVH are committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Please Note:All new hires are required to attend a mandatory three-day orientation at Weeks Medical Center in Lancaster, NH. This orientation provides essential training, compliance information, and an introduction to our organizational culture to ensure a smooth and successful transition into your role. Attendance on all three days is required for onboarding completion.

The anticipated hourly range for this position is$41.39/hr - $51.80/hr - $55.94/hr
. Final compensation will be determined based on the selected candidate's applicable experience, skills, qualifications, and other job-related factors.

North Country Healthcare is a non-profit affiliation of four medical facilities, Androscoggin Valley Hospital, North Country Home Health & Hospice Agency, Upper Connecticut Valley Hospital, and Weeks Medical Center, located in the White Mountains Region of New Hampshire. NCH includes numerous physicians and medical providers at multiple locations. This leading comprehensive healthcare network which employs hundreds of highly-trained individuals delivers integrated patient care through three community hospitals, specialty clinics, and home health and hospice services.

NCH remains committed to the health and well-being of the communities we serve.

North Country Healthcare is an equal-opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for…