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Day Surgery Nurse Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Day Surgery Nurse information

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$17

$47

$86

How much do day surgery nurse jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for day surgery nurse in Riverside, CA is $47.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.36 and $50.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a day surgery nurse?

Day Surgery Nurses are registered nurses who specialize in caring for patients undergoing surgical procedures that do not require an overnight hospital stay. They are responsible for preparing patients for surgery, assisting during procedures, and providing postoperative care and education to ensure a safe recovery at home. Day Surgery Nurses play a crucial role in monitoring patients for complications and supporting both patients and their families throughout the surgical process.

What does a day surgery nurse do?

Day surgery nurses assist surgeons and other health care professionals with outpatient surgery procedures. They typically work in hospitals or outpatient surgery centers. Their job duties include setting up IVs, monitoring patients before and after surgery, and providing advice on home care after the patients are discharged. Because there is a rapid turnover of patients, day surgery nurses need to be able to adapt quickly and attend to the needs of each patient. To become a day surgery nurse, you need to have a bachelor’s in nursing and be a registered nurse. You may also be required to take specialized courses in ambulatory care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a day surgery nurse, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Day Surgery Nurse, you need strong clinical skills in perioperative care, patient assessment, and post-anesthesia recovery, typically supported by an RN license and experience in surgical or ambulatory settings. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), surgical instrumentation, and medication administration systems is crucial. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient care and smooth patient transitions in the fast-paced environment of day surgery.

What are some common challenges faced by day surgery nurses, and how can they be managed?

Day Surgery Nurses often work in a fast-paced environment where multiple patients are admitted, treated, and discharged within a single day. Managing time effectively and maintaining clear communication with both patients and the surgical team are crucial, as nurses must ensure smooth transitions between pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative care. Handling patient anxiety, rapid patient turnover, and responding promptly to post-anesthesia needs are common challenges, but these can be managed through strong organizational skills, teamwork, and ongoing training in perioperative procedures.

What is the difference between Day Surgery Nurse vs Operating Room Nurse?

AspectDay Surgery NurseOperating Room Nurse
CredentialsRegistered Nurse (RN) with perioperative trainingRegistered Nurse (RN) with perioperative or surgical certification
Work EnvironmentAmbulatory surgery centers, outpatient clinicsHospitals, surgical theaters
Employer & IndustryOutpatient surgical facilities, clinicsHospitals, surgical units
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Day Surgery Nurses and Operating Room Nurses both provide perioperative care, but Day Surgery Nurses typically work in outpatient settings focusing on same-day procedures, while Operating Room Nurses work in hospital surgical theaters preparing patients for longer surgeries. Both roles require RN credentials and perioperative training, but their work environments and patient care scope differ.

How much do day surgery nurses make?

Day surgery nurses typically earn between $60,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Salaries can vary based on healthcare facility and whether the nurse works full-time or part-time, with some earning additional shift differentials or bonuses.
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Day Surgery Nurse jobs near you
Infographic showing various Day Surgery Nurse job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,665 per year, or $47.4 per hour.

Registered Nurse - Extended Day Surgery Unit (EDSU)

Western NSW Local Health District

Orange, CA • On-site

$81K - $114K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Employment Type: Temporary Full Time - 2 x positions (14/9/2026 - 12/9/2027 and 14/9/2026 - 13/6/2027) - Job share may be considered
Position Classification: Registered Nurse
Remuneration: $81,748.17 - $114,771.98 pa (+ superannuation + salary packaging options)
Location: Orange, NSW - Find out more
Hours Per Week: up to 38
Applications Close: 20 August 2026 - 11:59pm

Registered Nurse - Extended Day Surgery Unit (EDSU)
Orange Health Service

About the role
Exciting opportunities are available for Registered Nurses to work in the Extended Day Surgery Unit at Orange Health Service. Our single goal is provide a service that builds 'healthier people and thriving communities', and in this role, you will be an integral part of the multidisciplinary healthcare team, working to support the team and provide quality care for patients within the Extended Day Surgery Unit.
In this supportive team you will be well supported and your dedication will be seen and appreciated. You will be an integral member of the Ward and you'll see not only the results of your care, but the appreciation of the patients and their families, for the role you play in their health and recovery journey.
Challenge yourself. Make an impact. Shape the future. Join us at Western NSW Local Health District.
To find out more about the role click to view the Position Description
A career with Western NSW means you can challenge yourself, make an impact and shape the future of rural health. To explore the benefits of a career in our Local Health District, visit the WNSWLHD website.
Helping you Move to Western NSW
The Welcome Experience is a free NSW Government service supporting workers (and their families) who have accepted a job with Western NSW LHD in most locations. The service helps with housing, schooling, partner work and community connections. Find out more at The Welcome Experience

To apply for this role:

         Click 'Apply'

         Create a profile in the Recruitment & Onboarding (ROB) System or sign in using your existing login

         Upload your current resume

         Answer the selection criteria


Role-related enquiries: Please contact Samuel De Keizer, Nursing Unit Manager on (02) 6369 3133 or at Samuel.DeKeizer@health.nsw.gov.au for more information.
Additional information for applicants:

       All suitably qualified Aboriginal people are encouraged to apply for this position. This is a targeted position under GSE Rule 26. Where possible, affirmative action will be applied to support employment of eligible persons.

       This recruitment may be used to create an Eligibility List for similar roles in the future.

       Western NSW LHD can provide reasonable adjustments in the workplace. Applicants who provide information on an injury, health condition, or disability in their pre-employment forms will receive a functional assessment from our Risk Management Unit (RMU). This review will consider the applicant's needs and what reasonable adjustments and workplace supports are available to support their employment journey. 

         Western NSW LHD is committed to the safety and wellbeing of every child in our care. All staff in WNSWLHD are required to provide a safe and supportive environment for children, while working to protect them from harm and abuse. For more information on the Child Safety Standards, visit: NSW Government - Office of Children's Guardian

       Western NSW is committed to creating a safe and accessible workplace that promotes diversity, inclusion and belonging. As a vibrant and diverse region, rich in community and culture, we welcome applications from all people to build a respectful workplace dedicated to delivering the best health outcomes for our community.

       To find out more about the remuneration and conditions, visit NSW Public Health System Awards

       For more information, visit a Guide to Employment with WNSWLHD 

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