Transition diac Expertise into Operating Room

Are you an experienced cardiac nurse who thrives in high-acuity environments and wants to expand your practice into the Operating Room?

At Med Star Washington Hospital Center, home to one of the region’s premier cardiovascular programs, we are launching a CVOR Bridge Program designed specifically for experienced Cardiac RNs ready to transition into the Cardiovascular Operating Room (CVOR).

This is a structured, supported pathway that provides the OR education, hands-on experience, and clinical mentorship needed to practice confidently and safely in a surgical cardiac setting.

If you have strong cardiac expertise and have ever been curious about what happens on the other side of the sterile field, this is your opportunity.

Why Med Star Washington Hospital Center?

• We are incredibly proud of our two-time ANCC Pathway to Excellence® designation and Magnet® Program Recognition, the highest credential for nursing a hospital can receive. Med Star Washington is one of only two hospitals in the nation to hold active dual designations for nursing excellence and a positive work environment, as recognized by the ANCC.
• Home to one of the nation’s top cardiology, heart, and vascular surgery programs, as recognized by U.S. News & World Report, and earned the highest possible quality rating for cardiac surgery from the prestigious Society of Thoracic Surgeons.
• Ongoing investment in surgical services, including state-of-the-art CV operating rooms opening later this year.

Our cardiovascular service line performs a broad range of complex cardiac and vascular procedures, providing exposure to advanced technologies and intricate surgical cases. Nurses joining this program will become part of a highly specialized team supporting significant annual cardiac surgical volumes.

About the CVOR Bridge Program

This program is built for experienced cardiac nurses who bring deep clinical knowledge but may not have formal OR experience.

You will receive:

• Structured didactic OR curriculum
• Dedicated CVOR preceptorship
• Hands-on training in sterile technique, instrumentation, and intraoperative workflow
• Ongoing mentorship from experienced CVOR nurses and clinical educators
• Our goal is to provide the clinical foundation, technical training, and confidence needed to successfully transition into the surgical cardiac environment.

Our Leadership & Support Structure

You will practice within a well-established Perioperative leadership model that includes:

• Director of Perioperative Services
• Assistant Director of Nursing (AODN)
• Specialty Clinical Educators
• Dedicated CVOR charge nurses and experienced preceptors

This structure ensures consistent support, professional development, and operational excellence.

Why Transition to CVOR?

Your cardiac background is highly valuable in the OR setting. As a CVOR nurse, you will:

• Care for patients undergoing complex open-heart and major vascular procedures
• Collaborate closely with cardiac surgeons, perfusionists, anesthesia providers, and surgical technologists
• Develop advanced technical and procedural expertise
• Practice in a high-performing, team-based environment
• Expand your career opportunities within Cardiovascular and Perioperative Services

This is an opportunity to grow beyond traditional bedside cardiac care while remaining within your specialty. xrlwcon

Qualifications

• Active DC RN license prior to start date
• Minimum of 2 years recent cardiac nursing experience (ICU, CCU, CVICU, Cardiac Stepdown, Cath Lab, or similar high-acuity cardiac setting)
• Strong clinical judgment and critical thinking skills
• Commitment to completing the structured CVOR training program

What We Offer

• Highly competitive compensation
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Structured onboarding and specialty training
• Magnet-level nursing practice environment
• Long-term growth opportunities within Cardiovascular and Perioperative Services
• Access to professional development and advancement pathways

If you are an experienced cardiac RN ready to elevate your practice in one of the region’s leading cardiovascular programs, we would love to connect with you.

Apply today to learn more about joining our CVOR Bridge Program at Med Star Washington Hospital Center.