Otorhinolaryngology nurse

Otorhinolaryngology or an ear, nose, and throat nurse cares for patients with injuries or diseases of the ear, nose, throat, head, and neck.

Required education

ADN or BSN

Average annual salary

$76,000

Payscale.com (Jan. 2026)

Varied

Take on different tasks, patients, and situations every day.

Patient-facing

Work hands-on, directly with patients.

What is the role of an otorhinolaryngology nurse?

You’ll treat patients with a wide range of conditions, from allergies, sleep apnea and sinusitis to ear infections, laryngitis, tonsillitis, and broken bones of the nose.

What you’ll do as an otorhinolaryngology nurse

Assistance

You’ll help doctors and take care of patients before, during and after surgery.

Documentation

You’ll collect samples and keep a record of medical histories and symptoms.

Education

You’ll teach patients how to care for their condition at home.

Examination

You’ll assist and carry out examinations of the ear, nose, throat, head and neck.

Treatment

You’ll administer medication and monitor vital signs.

Female nurse looking at small female patient's throat with a tongue compressor

Where you’ll work as an orhinolaryngology nurse

Otorhinolaryngology nurses work in a variety of settings, including:

Allergy clinics
Community clinics
Hospitals
Assisted living centers
Otorhinolaryngology offices
Plastic surgery practices

How to become an otorhinolaryngology nurse

Get an Associate’s Degrees in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

When considering a future nursing career, it’s important to explore the different nursing programs available and the paths they offer. With various options like associate degree programs, bachelor’s degree programs, and direct-entry master’s degree programs, prospective students can choose the educational path that best suits their goals and interests.

Pass the NCLEX-RN.

The National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) is the all-important step between graduating from nursing school and becoming a nurse. It’s a standardized test, set by the Board of Nursing in each state, that makes sure you have the knowledge and skills you need to work in the field of nursing.

Work as a Registered Nurse, gaining three years’ experience in otorhinolaryngology

Pass your otorhinolaryngology certification exam through SOHN.org.

You’re ready to work as a otorhinolaryngology nurse!