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Perioperative Nurse

A Perioperative Nurse cares for patients before, during, and after surgery, assisting surgical teams and ensuring safe recovery processes.

How do I become a perioperative nurse

Get qualified to work as a perioperative nurse with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Perioperative Nurse generally earns $1,600 per week ($83,200 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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There has been a strong increase in the number of people employed in this industry over the last five years. There are currently 298,400 people employed as a nurse in Australia and many of them specialise as a Perioperative Nurse. Perioperative Nurses may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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An Advanced Diploma of Nursing (Perioperative) is an ideal qualification if you’re planning a career as a Perioperative Nurse. This course covers a range of topics including advanced skills in clinical assessments, contemporary nursing practices, medication administration and intravenous therapy, respiratory care nursing, cardiovascular care nursing and infection prevention and control.

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Further reading

What can you do with a Diploma of Nursing?

2nd February 2021

How to start a career in Veterinary Nursing

7th September 2021

Why is Nursing a Good Career Choice in Australia?

25th November 2022

Perioperative Nurse careers

A Perioperative Nurse provides care for patients undergoing surgical and invasive procedures in a hospital or specialist medical facility. You might prepare patients for surgery and assist surgical teams in an operating theatre. Perioperative Nurses monitor patients during recovery and may administer medication or tend to wounds.

Perioperative Nurses must have strong attention to detail and excellent analytical skills. You should have good observational abilities and be able to follow correct procedures during your work. Perioperative Nurses should be clear communicators and must be able to work well in a team. Interpersonal skills are important and you must be comfortable making decisions quickly.