Registered Nurse - Pre-Op

Pay or shift range: $45 USD to $58 USD.

The estimated range is the budgeted amount for this position. Final offers are based on various factors, including skill set, experience, location, qualifications and other job-related reasons.

The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics LLC (CAO) is one of the nation’s largest Orthopaedics practices, owned and operated by physicians, with over 60 locations across Maryland, Northern Virginia, and the District of Columbia. With approximately 2,000 employees, working in 28 Divisions, CAO is a growing business with revenues of approximately $250 Million. CAO is committed to be the Orthopaedics provider of choice for our patients;

partner of choice for payors and health systems; and employer of choice by attracting and retaining a talented workforce.

The Pre-Operative Intake Nurse (RN) is responsible for preparing patients for surgical procedures by completing comprehensive pre-operative assessments, verifying medical history, ensuring all required documentation and clearances are obtained, and providing patient education. The nurse works closely with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and administrative staff to ensure patients are optimized for surgery and that all clinical and regulatory requirements are met prior to the procedure.

This position will support operations at Watkins Mill Surgery Center, ensuring efficient daily workflows and high-quality patient care delivery. Watkins Mill Surgery Center is a state-of-the-art outpatient surgery center located in Gaithersburg, Maryland, serving the DMV region and specializing in orthopedic surgery and pain management.

• Conduct complete pre-operative assessments, including review of patient history, medications, allergies, and emotional status.
• Perform and document all necessary pre-operative testing (e.g., lab work); report abnormal values to anesthesia or the surgeon.
• Explain surgical consents, rights, responsibilities, and pre/post-op instructions; obtain required patient signatures.
• Communicate clearly with patients and families regarding the surgical process and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
• Provide comfort and reassurance, supporting patients’ rights to privacy, dignity, and confidentiality.
• Coordinate with anesthesia providers to ensure findings are reviewed before their evaluations.
• Complete pre-admission checklists and transition documentation to the operating room team.
• Ensure patient records and documentation are complete and available for review on the day before surgery.
• Organize and efficiently track surgical patients and documentation to ensure workflow continuity.
• Initiate pre-operative calls 1–2 days prior to surgery to review history, medications, and instructions.
• Communicate with surgeon office staff to obtain missing or required paperwork.
• Obtain patient records for pre-op testing and ensure required documentation is on file.
• Perform follow-up calls to all post-surgical patients to answer any questions and direct patient to doctor’s office when appropriate.
• Document and file post operative phone calls in chart.
• Pre-Op Area Management:
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in the pre-op/recovery area in compliance with infection control standards.
• Assist in inventory management of drugs, supplies, and equipment in the pre-op area.
• Use clinical equipment safely and effectively, anticipating patient needs. Follow all accepted standards of practice and confirm that procedures are completed correctly and safely.
• Other duties as assigned.

The Registered Nurse reports directly to the Nurse Manager or Director of Nursing.

This role does not have direct reports.

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing.
• Maryland or Compact RN license.
• Minimum 2 years of experience working in an outpatient surgery or hospital pre-op unit.
• BLS certification.
• ACLS certification.
• Proficient knowledge of medical terminology.
• Experience collaborating across multiple functions.
• Experience innovating in a fast-growing work environment and dealing with ambiguity.

• Strong Interpersonal Skills – Ability to…