Perioperative Services Educator

Location:

CARROLL, 311 S Clark St, Carroll, IA 51401, USA

• Assesses learning needs of perioperative staff (OR, SDS, PACU) in collaboration with the Director and department leaders.
• Develops, implements, and evaluates orientation programs specific to perioperative roles, including circulating RN, scrub role, and recovery care.
• Ensures all education and training programs align with:
• Evidence-based practice
• Organizational policies
• Perioperative standards (e.g., sterile technique, surgical safety, anesthesia recovery)
• Designs and oversees competency validation programs, including annual skills, high‑risk/low‑volume procedures, and new equipment/processes.
• Provides ongoing clinical education, in‑services, and just‑in‑time training.

• Serves as a clinical resource and role model for perioperative staff.
• Supports adherence to:
• Surgical safety practices (e.g., time‑out, site verification)
• Infection prevention standards (sterile field, instrument handling)
• Safe medication practices in the perioperative setting
• Collaborates with Quality, Infection Prevention, and leadership to:
• Address practice gaps
• Support performance improvement initiatives
• Participate in RCA and education follow‑up
• Assist with implementation of new procedures, equipment, and evidence‑based practice changes.

• Coordinates simulation‑based training and skills labs relevant to perioperative care (e.g., airway emergencies, malignant hyperthermia, code response in OR).
• Utilizes simulation equipment, task trainers, and competency tools to enhance clinical readiness.

• Ensures staff education and competencies meet regulatory and accreditation standards (CMS Conditions of Participation and professional standards).
• Maintains accurate, timely, and audit‑ready documentation of orientation, competencies, and required education.
• Assists with survey readiness activities and education related to identified gaps.
• Works collaboratively with surgeons, anesthesia providers, nursing leadership, and ancillary departments.
• Supports interdisciplinary education and team‑based training.
• Communicates effectively with staff to promote a positive learning environment and Just Culture principles.

• Maintains current knowledge of perioperative standards and best practices.
• Participates in professional development activities and continuing education.

• Participates in department and organizational meetings as required.
• Supports fiscal responsibility in education planning, including efficient use of supplies, equipment, and staff time.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities but provides functional leadership through:

• Coordination of orientation and competency programs
• Guidance and support of preceptors and staff
• Oversight of clinical education activities

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) required

• Minimum of 3 years of perioperative nursing experience (OR, PACU, or SDS) required
• Prior education, preceptor, or leadership experience preferred

• Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in the State of Iowa
• BLS (Basic Life Support) certification through the American Heart Association required. New hires may obtain certification during onboarding with organizational support.
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) through the American Heart Association required.
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) through the American Heart Association required.
• CNOR, CAPA, or CPAN certification – preferred

• Understanding of adult learning principles and competency‑based education
• Strong knowledge of perioperative clinical practices and standards
• Knowledge of teaching and learning concepts in the health care environment
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of computer software programs…