| Aspect | Circulating Nurse | Scrub Nurse |
|---|
| Credentials | RN license, perioperative training | RN license, perioperative training |
| Work Environment | Operating room, overseeing procedures | Operating room, assisting directly in surgery |
| Role | Manages patient care, supplies, and documentation | Prepares sterile instruments, assists surgeon directly |
Both roles are vital in the operating room and require RN licensure with perioperative training. The circulating nurse oversees patient safety and supplies, while the scrub nurse focuses on sterile instrument handling. Understanding these differences helps clarify their distinct responsibilities during surgery.