Perioperative Nursing: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries

Program Overview

Perioperative nursing is a specialized field focused on delivering comprehensive care to surgical patients throughout the entire operative process—from preoperative preparation to intraoperative support and postoperative recovery. This advanced training equips registered nurses with the clinical expertise and procedural precision required to function effectively in high-pressure surgical environments.

• Operating room safety and preparation: Mastery of protocols and environmental controls essential for maintaining a sterile, efficient, and secure surgical setting.
• Aseptic technique: Rigorous practices to prevent microbial contamination and ensure patient safety during invasive procedures.
• Anesthesia fundamentals: Understanding of anesthetic agents, administration methods, and the physiological effects on surgical patients.
• Patient preparation: Comprehensive assessment and readiness protocols, including physical, psychological, and procedural readiness for surgery.
• Surgical instruments and procedures: In-depth knowledge of specialized tools, their functions, and proper handling during various surgical interventions.
• Sterilization and disinfecting protocols: Application of validated methods to eliminate pathogens and maintain sterility across instruments and surfaces.
• Surgical drugs and solutions: Familiarity with pharmacological agents used during surgery, including their indications, effects, and administration routes.
• Hemostasis techniques: Skill in controlling bleeding during surgery using mechanical, thermal, or chemical methods to ensure surgical field clarity.
• Emergency procedures: Preparedness for critical intraoperative events, such as cardiac arrest or severe hemorrhage, with rapid, effective response strategies.
• Patient and family education: Development of communication skills to inform and support patients and their families about surgical expectations, recovery, and postoperative care.