Job: Operating Room Nurse

Leadville, Colorado, is a historic Victorian-era mining town and the highest incorporated city in the United States, situated at 10,152 feet—nearly two miles above sea level. Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and surrounded by iconic 14,000-foot peaks such as Mount Elbert and Mount Massive, Leadville offers breathtaking alpine scenery and a truly authentic mountain-town experience.

Unlike larger resort communities known for luxury retail and high tourist traffic, Leadville retains its genuine Colorado character. The town is known for its welcoming, community-focused atmosphere, historic architecture, and rich mining heritage. With no major chain stores and a vibrant mix of long-time residents, outdoor enthusiasts, and local families, Leadville offers a distinctive environment where neighbors know each other and small-town values remain strong.

Leadville has a close-knit population of approximately 2,600–3,000 residents, with roughly 7,700 people across Lake County. The area offers a peaceful rural-suburban setting without the congestion of larger mountain destinations. Residents enjoy exceptional year-round outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and fishing at nearby lakes such as Turquoise Lake and Twin Lakes. Winter activities include skiing and snowshoeing at Ski Cooper, a family-friendly ski area just outside town. The community also hosts renowned endurance events such as the Leadville Race Series, attracting athletes from around the world.

St. Vincent General Hospital District—commonly known as St. Vincent Health—has served the Leadville community since the late 1800s, with roots dating back to 1879. As a critical access hospital, the organization provides essential healthcare services to local residents and visitors across Lake County and the surrounding high-country region.

St. Vincent Health offers a comprehensive range of services, including:

• 24/7 emergency department and ambulance services

• Primary and family medicine

• Visiting specialty care (including cardiology, urology, general surgery, pain management, podiatry, and ophthalmology)

• Minor elective outpatient procedures

• Physical therapy and rehabilitation services

• Diagnostic imaging and laboratory services

• Occupational health and sleep studies

The organization is known for its collaborative, team-oriented culture, where healthcare professionals work closely together in a supportive rural hospital environment. Employees often cite the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a small community, maintain a strong work–life balance, and enjoy competitive benefits—including retirement plans, shift differentials, and benefits eligibility for many part-time roles.

Working at St. Vincent Health offers the unique opportunity to combine a rewarding healthcare career with an exceptional mountain lifestyle. For individuals seeking purposeful work, strong community connections, and access to world-class outdoor recreation, Leadville provides a rare and inspiring place to live and serve.

• Graduate of an accredited School of Nursing.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.
• Current Colorado RN license or a current RN license from a participating state in the National Licensure Compact.
• Certification in perioperative nursing, CNOR, preferred 
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)
• Basic Life Support (BLS)
• Previous experience working in an operating room or surgical setting. 
• Specialized knowledge, skills, and abilities in empirical and practical perioperative nursing
• Previous ambulatory surgery experience. 
• Must possess general clinical competency in acute patient care. 
• Must demonstrate aptitude for maintaining the pace of abbreviated encounters, keeping patient flow to national standards for post-operative care. 
• Must demonstrate ability to gather pertinent medical history and provide concise instructions for pre-operative and post-operative care. 
• Strong understanding of surgical procedures, instruments, and terminology
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Attention to detail and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Ability to stand for long periods and work in high-stress, fast-paced environments. 
• Good stamina and ability to lift and move heavy equipment.

An operating room nurse is an essential part of ensuring successful medical procedures in the OR. This job requires a highly qualified individual who is highly skilled in delivering compassionate patient care while simultaneously functioning as an integral part of medical teams. An OR nurse needs exceptional skills in assessment, critical thinking, decision-making, and communication, and aims for excellent outcomes in the surgical field. This job requires a level of knowledge and commitment commensurate with meeting the medical and nursing standards of the highest level of care.

• Preparing the operating room and ensuring all necessary surgical instruments, equipment, and supplies are sterile and ready for use.
•  Assisting the surgical team during procedures by passing instruments and supplies in a timely and efficient manner.
• Monitoring patients' vital signs and maintaining a sterile environment throughout the surgical procedure.
• Providing post-operative care and monitoring patients as they recover from anesthesia.
• Collaborating with the surgical team to develop and implement patient care plans. 
• Educating patients and their families about surgical procedures, post-operative care, and follow-up requirements. 
• Maintaining accurate and detailed patient records and surgical logs. 
• Adhering to strict infection control regulations and hospital policies. 
• Preparing patients for surgery, including administering necessary medications and conducting preoperative assessments.
• Assisting with the transportation of patients to and from the operating room. 
• Ensuring that operative and informed consents are signed and completed.