CVOR RN Nurse Jobs

What is a CVOR Nurse?

A CVOR nurse is a registered nurse with specialized training to work on the surgical team to treat cardiovascular surgery patients. These experienced nurses have obtained experience in critical care, cardiovascular treatment, and operating room procedures. CVOR nurses should have experience in both the circulating nurse role and the scrub role, as well as in advanced life-saving situations.

CVOR Nurse Duties

Some of the responsibilities of a CVOR RN include:

• CVOR nurses assist with patient care in the OR, ensuring that the surgery goes smoothly, including following sterile procedures and ensuring the necessary equipment and medications are available.
• Assisting the physician by monitoring vital signs and applying dressings are also important duties.
• CVOR nurses then ensure proper handling of any specimens and chart patient progress and outcomes in the medical record.
• Types of cardiovascular cases that a CVOR nurse might assist with include: mediastinoscopy, coronary artery bypass grafts (CABG), lung resections, general thoracic surgery, aortic dissections, and valve replacements.

Although there is not yet a CVOR nurse certification, there are several likely requirements for this role. CVOR RNs often hold a BSN degree and must hold both current BLS and ACLS certifications. In the case of pediatric CVOR settings, an additional PALS certification would be required. Many CVOR nurses also achieve the certified perioperative nurse credential of Certified Nurse Operating Room (CNOR). This credential is obtained by passing the perioperative nurse exam and maintaining work experience requirements, as well as continuing education.

CVOR Nurse Salary and Job Outlook

Nurse salaries are varied based upon experience, education, and geographic location. However, CVOR nurses enjoy a very good job market, with opportunities for top pay because of their specialized experience and education. Many job search sites list CVOR nurse pay close to the top of the range for registered nurses. Travel CVOR positions hold even greater earnings potential, with packages that include premium wages, housing, and expense stipends. Nurses with a CNOR credential often earn more than their peers.