JOB DESCRIPTION This job description defines the tasks and responsibilities normally expected of the Perioperative Registered Nurse, but it should be understood that it is not all inclusive and is subject to change by the Surgery Services Supervisor or the Director of Patient Care Services. The Perioperative RN will assess, plan, implement and evaluate the patient and care needed from admission through discharge, provide comprehensive patient care, act as a resource person for the patient, family and non-professional staff.  The RN is responsible for delegating appropriate responsibilities to the Scrub Tech. The Perioperative RN works with the supervisor to develop and implement policies and procedures.  She/he is also responsible for restocking supplies, cleaning equipment and contributing to the efficient use of financial resources. He/she has frequent contact with and often handles sensitive information regarding patient and hospital business and must maintain confidentiality of that information.  He/she must act as an ambassador of public relations for the hospital and the community including patients, families, visitors and other organizations. SPECIFICATIONS Forecasts needs for special equipment and supplies for specific procedures coordinating activity with Surgery Services Supervisor. Utilizes knowledge of skills in Perioperative Nursing procedures as a basis for implementing patient care. Coordinates use and care of equipment effectively. Organizes own time effectively. Identifies patient, surgeon and staff needs and sets priorities accordingly by communicating, in a pleasant manner, with all involved personnel. Adheres to standards of care, department objectives and individual objectives. Follows the hospital and nursing department policies and procedures. Identifies deficiencies in patient care and initiates corrective action. Participates on appropriate committees Check narcotics at beginning of shift with another RN. ·         Verifies operative procedure via consent form, patient's statement and surgeon's verification. Provides emotional needs during transfer by verbal communication, touch, or comfort measures. Insures proper body temperature positioning according to surgery needs. Bone prominence, etc., are protectively padded. Notes color and condition of skin as to rashes, bruises, lesions, turgor, or prior incisions and documents on record. Reports abnormal diagnostic studies findings to anesthesiologist and/or surgeon. Determines mobility of body parts by patient's statement or range of motion. Identifies and records presence of internal/external prosthesis/implants. Verifies allergies to medication or chemicals by patient statement or chart H & P and relates findings to other staff. Communicates and documents physiological/psychosocial status data by verbal report and patient record. Assesses vital signs, sensory impairments if present. Assesses for perception, expectation of care and coping mechanism pertaining to procedure. Identifies cultural practices and religious beliefs and how to integrate them into the patient care plan. Confirms identity of patient by means of chart check, verbally from the patient and reading armband. Provides emotional needs during transfer by verbal communication, touch, or comfort measures. Insures proper body temperature positioning according to surgery needs. Bone prominence, etc., are protectively padded. Organizes nursing activities in a logical sequence (i.e. ground pad placement prior to draping). Completes a nursing assessment to identify individualized patient needs and problems. Plans, implements, and evaluates patient care plan to meet the individualized needs of the patient. Prepares the incision site according to the established procedure. Anticipates and