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Operating Room Associate Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

BSN or Associate's degree * Active RN License for this state * 2 or more years of OR experience ... Why work as an Operating Room Travel Nurse in Herrin, IL? Embark on a fulfilling journey as an ...

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Operating Room Associate information

What is an operating room associate?

Operating Room Associates are healthcare professionals who assist in the preparation, maintenance, and organization of the operating room before, during, and after surgical procedures. Their responsibilities often include ensuring that surgical instruments and supplies are properly sterilized, setting up equipment, and helping the surgical team maintain a safe and sterile environment. They may also be responsible for transporting patients and handling surgical specimens. Operating Room Associates play a crucial role in supporting surgeons, nurses, and other medical staff to ensure surgeries run smoothly and efficiently.

What does an operating room associate do?

Operating Room Associates play a vital role in ensuring surgeries run smoothly by preparing and maintaining sterile environments, assembling surgical instruments, and assisting with patient positioning. They frequently collaborate with nurses, surgeons, and anesthesiologists to anticipate needs and facilitate efficient procedures. Their attention to detail and ability to adapt quickly help prevent delays and support patient safety throughout each operation. This position offers hands-on experience in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, making it ideal for those seeking a career in healthcare support.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an operating room associate?

To thrive as an Operating Room Associate, you need a solid understanding of surgical procedures, aseptic techniques, and medical terminology, often supported by a relevant certification such as Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) or similar training. Familiarity with surgical instruments, sterilization equipment, and hospital information systems is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure smooth surgical operations, patient safety, and effective collaboration with surgical teams in high-stress environments.

What is the difference between Operating Room Associate vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectOperating Room AssociateSurgical Technologist
CertificationsCPR, hospital-specific trainingCertified Surgical Technologist (CST) often preferred
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, outpatient surgical facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with patient prep, sterilize equipment, support surgical teamSet up operating rooms, pass instruments, maintain sterile field

Both Operating Room Associates and Surgical Technologists work in surgical settings, assisting teams during procedures. While their roles overlap in supporting surgical operations, Surgical Technologists typically have more specialized training and certification, focusing on instrument handling and sterile techniques. Operating Room Associates often perform supportive tasks and may have less formal certification. Understanding these differences can help in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operating Room jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Operating Room jobs in Illinois are:

Operating Room (OR) Registered Nurse

ATC Healthcare

Rockford, IL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a highly disciplined and detail-oriented Registered Nurse to join our surgical services team. The OR Nurse provides essential patient care before, during, and after surgical procedures. This role involves serving as either a scrub nurse or a circulating nurse, ensuring that the sterile field is maintained, the surgical team has necessary supplies, and the patient remains stable and safe throughout the operative period.
Key Responsibilities

  • Prepare the operating room with the required sterile instruments, equipment, and supplies specific to each surgical procedure.
  • Assess and prepare patients for surgery, verifying consents, surgical sites, and medical history.
  • Maintain the sterile field and strictly adhere to aseptic techniques to prevent surgical site infections.
  • Serve as a circulating nurse by coordinating the activities of the surgical team, managing patient positioning, and documenting the procedure in real-time.
  • Serve as a scrub nurse by passing instruments and supplies to the surgeon and assisting with the surgical procedure as needed.
  • Conduct accurate counts of sponges, needles, and instruments before, during, and after the surgery to ensure no items are retained.
  • Monitor the patient's vital signs and physical condition during the procedure, alerting the surgical team to any significant changes.
  • Collaborate with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and surgical technologists to ensure efficient workflow and patient safety.
  • Provide immediate post-operative care and safely hand off patients to the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) staff.
Qualifications
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Nursing (BSN preferred) from an accredited nursing program.
  • Current and unrestricted state license as a Registered Nurse (RN).
  • Certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS).
  • Prior experience in an operating room or surgical setting is highly preferred.
  • Certification as a CNOR (Certified Perioperative Nurse) is a plus.
  • Strong knowledge of surgical instruments, sterilization standards, and perioperative nursing principles.
  • Ability to think critically and act quickly in high-pressure or emergency situations.

Work Environment
This role is based in a sterile hospital or ambulatory surgery center. It requires standing for long periods, wearing surgical attire and personal protective equipment, and the physical ability to assist in positioning or transferring patients.
Equal Opportunity Employer: ATC Healthcare Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regards to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status or any other category protected by Federal, State or local law. M/F/D/V EOE