Final answer:
The regular RN provides comprehensive care in various settings, administering medication and educating patients, whereas the perioperative RN focuses on the pre, intra, and post phases of surgery, preparing patients, assisting surgeons, and ensuring sterile environments.
Step-by-step explanation:
The roles of a regular Registered Nurse (RN) and a perioperative RN (also known as a surgical nurse) have distinct differences related to their working environment, responsibilities, and the nature of patient care they provide. A regular RN typically works in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, or patient homes and provides comprehensive care which includes assessing patients' condition, administering medication, monitoring vital signs, and educating patients and their families on health conditions.
In contrast, a perioperative RN specializes in preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care. This role is focused on preparing patients for surgery, assisting surgeons during procedures by handling surgical instruments, ensuring the operating room environment is sterile, monitoring patients’ vital signs during surgery, and providing care and support after the surgery during the recovery process.
The perioperative RN requires additional competencies in surgical procedures, aseptic techniques, and the ability to handle critical situations that might arise during surgery. Often perioperative nurses may advance their skills through certifications such as Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR) to demonstrate proficiency in their specialized field.