By Brandy Thompson, M.Ed., RN, CNOR, CST
With more than 25 years of experience in the operating room, I can confidently say that perioperative nursing is one of the most rewarding—and stable—paths in the nursing profession. The OR is a highly specialized environment where teamwork, precision, critical thinking, and patient advocacy come together every single day.
For nurses who are ready for a change or looking to expand their skill set, transitioning into surgery can open the door to a fulfilling career that directly impacts patient safety during some of their most critical moments of care.
A Program Designed for Nurses Entering the OR
The GateWay Operating Room Nurse Program is intentionally designed to support nurses as they transition into the surgical setting. The program blends theory with hands-on practice, ensuring you gain both confidence and competence before stepping fully into the OR.
You’ll learn through:
- Focused, surgery-specific coursework
- In-person lab simulations that mirror real OR scenarios
- Clinical experiences that allow you to apply your skills in real-world settings
All instruction is led by faculty who bring extensive operating room backgrounds and firsthand knowledge of perioperative nursing.
Program Format at a Glance
The program is structured to work with your professional schedule while still delivering immersive training:
- Online coursework paired with in-person lab simulations
- Tuesdays & Wednesdays, 4:00–8:00 pm
- Four Saturdays in the Spring
- 8-hour sessions (dates to be announced)
- Summer clinical rotation
- 200 total hours
- Scheduled around your availability
- Minimum of two 8-hour shifts per week
Why Choose a Career in Surgery?
Many nurses are drawn to perioperative nursing for its unique benefits, including:
- More predictable schedules compared to many bedside roles
- Strong interdisciplinary collaboration with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and surgical technologists
- Opportunities to develop advanced technical and critical-thinking skills
- A vital role in ensuring patient safety before, during, and after surgery
The OR is fast-paced and demanding—but for many nurses, it’s also where they find long-term professional satisfaction.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re interested in securing a spot in the Spring 2026 cohort, I encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible. Early applications allow us to plan effectively and reserve your place in the program.
Perioperative nursing isn’t just a career change—it’s a chance to grow, specialize, and make a meaningful impact every day. Don't wait; enroll for this next step in your nursing journey.
Call 602.286.8516 or email [email protected] to enroll now!