Registered Nurse Circulator, ASC

Tennessee Oncology•Nashville, TN

About The Position

The RN Circulator delivers safe, efficient, and compassionate perioperative nursing care to patients receiving outpatient surgical and procedural services at Tennessee Surgery Center. Serving as the patient’s advocate, the Circulator coordinates care before, during, and after procedures in collaboration with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and perioperative staff. The role requires clinical judgment, strong communication, and adherence to AORN standards, regulatory requirements, and TnSC policies to support optimal outcomes in operating-room and procedure-room settings, including care for pediatric populations. The Surgical Clinic (TSC) is a multi-specialty surgical practice in Middle Tennessee with more than 40 surgeons. It emphasizes patient care, convenience, satisfaction, and a supportive, collaborative, and innovative workplace.

Requirements

Current, unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license in the State of Tennessee.
Graduate of an accredited School of Nursing.
Current BLS certification required.
ACLS and PALS certification required or to be obtained based on patient population.
Strong knowledge of aseptic technique, surgical and procedural workflows, and perioperative practice standards, including AORN.
Excellent critical-thinking, communication, and organizational skills.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment and maintain composure in high-stress situations.
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during surgical procedures.
Ability to lift, push, and pull up to 50 pounds and assist with patient transfers and positioning.
Manual dexterity and visual acuity sufficient to operate equipment and monitor patient condition.
Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations.

Nice To Haves

At least one year of perioperative, procedural, or pediatric nursing experience is preferred.
ASC or hospital OR experience is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Perform comprehensive, age-appropriate preoperative assessments and confirm patient identity, consent, surgical or procedural plan, and site marking according to safety protocols.
Prepare operating and procedure rooms by verifying the availability, sterility, and proper functioning of instruments, equipment, and supplies.
Circulate during surgical and procedural cases, monitor sterile technique, anticipate team needs, document care, and support safe, efficient workflow.
Advocate for patients and families by maintaining safety, dignity, confidentiality, and emotional support throughout the perioperative experience.
Assist with patient positioning, preparation, and intraoperative monitoring in collaboration with anesthesia providers and surgeons.
Coordinate patient flow and care transitions with Pre-Op, PACU, recovery, and sterile processing staff.
Manage and process surgical and procedural specimens according to protocols and chain-of-custody requirements.
Respond promptly and appropriately to intraoperative or procedural emergencies.
Participate in infection prevention, quality improvement, and compliance with AAAHC, CMS, OSHA, and AORN standards.
Provide education, mentorship, and clinical support to new staff and team members in the OR or procedural setting.
Perform additional duties as assigned by the OR Director, Team Lead, or Administrator.