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Operating Room Nurse Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

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Operating Room Nurse information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$15

$42

$77

How much do operating room nurse jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for operating room nurse in Decatur, AL is $42.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.56 and $45.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Do Operating Room Nurses Do?

Operating room nurses assist surgeons in the operating room and care for the patients before and after their surgical procedures. The operating room nurse may work with a team that includes a scrub nurse and a circulating nurse; depending on the procedure, all are considered operating room nurses. Their duties involve handling patient care and preparing the surgical tools for use. The operating room nurse monitors the patient before and after surgery for signs of distress or problems that require immediate attention, and also explains to the patient and family members what they need to do post-surgery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operating Room Nurse, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operating Room Nurse, you need strong clinical skills in perioperative care, knowledge of surgical procedures, and an active RN license, often with additional certification like CNOR. Familiarity with surgical instruments, sterile technique, and patient monitoring systems is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure patient safety, efficient surgical workflows, and effective collaboration with surgical teams.

What are some common challenges faced by Operating Room Nurses, and how can they be managed?

Operating Room Nurses often face challenges such as working in high-pressure situations, adapting to rapidly changing surgical schedules, and maintaining strict adherence to sterile techniques. Managing these challenges involves strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under stress. Many OR nurses find that building solid teamwork with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and surgical technologists helps them adapt quickly and provide the best patient care. Ongoing professional development and mentorship can also support nurses in overcoming obstacles and advancing in their careers.

What are Operating Room Nurses?

Operating Room Nurses, also known as perioperative nurses or scrub nurses, are registered nurses who specialize in caring for patients before, during, and after surgical procedures. They play a critical role in preparing the operating room, assisting surgeons during operations, and monitoring patients’ vital signs throughout surgery. Operating Room Nurses ensure that the surgical environment is sterile, supplies are ready, and patient safety is maintained at all times. They work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other surgical team members. Their expertise is essential to the smooth and safe completion of surgical procedures.

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

AspectOperating Room NurseSurgical Technologist
CredentialsRN license, OR-specific certificationsPost-secondary education, certification (e.g., CST)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, outpatient surgical facilities
Roles & ResponsibilitiesPatient care, monitoring, assisting during surgeryPreparing operating rooms, passing instruments

Operating Room Nurses and Surgical Technologists both work in surgical settings, but OR Nurses provide direct patient care and monitor patients during surgery, while Surgical Technologists focus on preparing the surgical environment and assisting the surgical team. Both roles require specialized certifications and are essential in the operating room environment.

What are popular job titles related to Operating Room Nurse jobs in Decatur, AL? For Operating Room Nurse jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operating Room Nurse jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Operating Room Nurse jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Operating Room Nurse jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Operating Room Nurse job openings:

RN OR Circulator - Crestwood Hospital - Surgery - 1.0 FTE

Huntsville Hospital Health System

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 hours ago


Huntsville Hospital Health System rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 201 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

708th of 864 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview
Responsible for the delivery of patient care through the nursing process of assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation and evaluation; responsible for directing, coordinating all nursing care based on established clinical nursing practices; collaborates with other professional disciplines to ensure effective and efficient patient care delivery and the achievement of desired patient outcomes.
Qualifications
Education: Graduate of an School of Professional Nursing; must provide documented evidence to perform waived testing
Experience: Must have 2 years of endoscopy experience or at least 5 years of RN nursing experience in various clinical settings including Surgical Services, Critical Care or Medical-Surgical Nursing.
Licenses/Certificates: License to practice as a Registered Nurse in the State of Alabama. Current BLS certification. Current ACLS Certification required or obtained within 90 days of employment

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