RN - PACU

Registered Nurse (RN) - Perioperative Practice

Definition of Position: The Registered Nurse specializing in perioperative practice performs nursing activities in the pre-anesthesia, post-anesthesia Phase I, and post-anesthesia Phase II care of the patient's surgical experience. The recovery RN monitors patients undergoing "local only" procedures in the OR and may administer conscious sedation if certified. This role ensures the provision of quality care for pre- and post-procedure patients through the utilization of the nursing process, established standards of care, and hospital policies and procedures.

Essential Job Functions:

• Conduct nursing assessments on patients in the pre- and postoperative phases of care.
• Perform patient admissions following hospital standards.
• Initiate and manage intravenous access.
• Monitor patients for changes in vital signs and consciousness; report and intervene as necessary based on medical guidelines.
• Utilize the Aldrete scoring system in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU).
• Ensure patients maintain a patent airway and adequate respiratory function.
• Execute interventions to support various bodily systems and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.
• Communicate patient status consistently to medical staff.
• Administer and assess the effectiveness of pain management medications.
• Address postoperative nausea using appropriate medications and comfort measures.
• Develop individualized peri-anesthesia plans of care.
• Assist anesthesia staff with various nerve blocks as needed.
• Administer medications while adhering to the eight rights of safe medication practices.
• Assess and maintain the integrity of surgical sites to enhance tissue perfusion and prevent infection.
• Perform interventions to maintain normothermia throughout the continuum of care.
• Evaluate patient understanding and provide education on outcomes, medication management, wound care, diet, activity, anesthesia side effects, and signs of complications.
• Assess patient progress towards desired outcomes.
• Collaborate with other disciplines and nursing staff as needed.
• Delegate tasks in accordance with Oregon State Board of Nursing guidelines.
• Employ critical thinking, problem-solving, and conflict resolution skills to foster effective team relationships.
• Pursue professional growth and development opportunities.
• Advocate for patients and safeguard their privacy and health information.
• Involve patients and/or support persons in decisions affecting their perioperative care.
• Adhere to safety protocols including fall risk management and infection control.
• Document accurately in the electronic medical record.
• Maintain required competencies and participate in ongoing education related to designated programs.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Education:

• Required: Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
• Preferred: Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Licenses/Certifications/Registrations:

• Required: Current Registered Nurse License in the State of Oregon, BLS/PALS/ACLS, & TNCC
• Preferred: Conscious sedation certification, CAPA/CPAN certification, Ultrasound Guided IV certification, CRASE training (required for travel assignments exceeding six months).

Experience:

• Required: One year of critical care experience or two years of medical-surgical experience.
• Preferred: Previous experience in Day Surgery, PACU, Pre-admission services, or ambulatory surgery centers.
• Familiarity with equipment such as glucometers, arterial lines, space labs, Epic charting, bladder scanners, ultrasound machines, Belmont rapid infusers, and blood warmers is advantageous.

Physical Requirements:

This role requires the ability to:

• Detect and respond to various sounds, including patient alarms and verbal communication.
• Communicate effectively and interact with patients, families, and healthcare team members.
• Observe patient conditions, read documentation and monitors, and distinguish colors for clinical purposes.
• Assess