PACU RN

Orthopaedic Associates of Maine is hiring a Per Diem PACU RN for the Ambulatory Surgery Center in Portland, ME. POSITION SUMMARY Position facilitates optimal patient care by providing nursing services to surgeons in the Orthopedic Surgery Center ensuring patient comfort and safety while in the PACU. Delivers post-operative care to patients with the overall responsibility of Phase I and Phase II recovery - prepares and educates patient for eventual discharge. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Establishes an environment of safety for the surgical patient Assesses, diagnoses, implements, and evaluates treatments and procedures that contribute to the physiological stability for the surgical patient Demonstrates knowledge regarding the psychological, sociologic, and spiritual responses of patients and their families to the operative or other procedure Monitors and maintains infection control standards throughout the Orthopedic Surgery Center.. Provides back up to pre-operative process. Determines when patients are ready to move to PACU then Discharged home. Performs intervention duties in cases of post-operative emergencies Manages blood and fluid transfusions and draw specimens Ensures that the post-operative space is clean and sanitized Evaluates, documents and Changes bandages and dress surgical wounds as indicated. Supports patient rights and ethics by delivering consistent, competent, and ethical care within legal standards of practice, while maintaining privacy and support of the patient’s value system. Demonstrates knowledge of the health system environment and administrative issues that impact job performance, patient safety, and ethical considerations. Performs other duties necessary to maintain the overall efficiency and continuity of the surgery center PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES Consistently performs hand hygiene practices for the prevention of infection Assesses patients’ condition after a surgery has been performed recording all findings in patients’ file and reporting any changes to the Physician Answers patients’ and families’ questions and ensure that they are kept comfortable Ensures that all nursing activities are carried out in accordance to individual patient care plan Initiate patient education programs to ensure that both patients and families are educated on procedures and medications Responsible for maintaining licensure and relevant certifications; ongoing personal and professional growth and development Attends meetings as assigned and participate in educational activities to keep skills up to date Demonstrates professionalism at all times Displays cooperative behavior and interacts positively and effectively with others to promote a team environment Performs other duties necessary to maintain the overall efficiency and continuity of the clinic Is proactive in identifying, reporting and participating in the resolution of any potential or actual patient safety issues Support Company vision and values QUALIFICATIONS: Successful completion of a nursing degree from an accredited nursing school Current RN licensed issued by the State of Maine or eligible for licensure Previous experience as a Registered Nurse in a surgical setting is required Current Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification required; Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Excellent communication and interpersonal skills necessary for interacting with patients, physicians, supervisors and other staff Skill in time management, prioritizing and medical care coordination Ability to organize and accomplish tasks, and have the flexibility to meet changing demands on daily basis Ability to demonstrate compassion and caring in dealing with others Ability to maintain confidentiality Ability to project and maintain a professional image Ability to work independently and excel as part of a team Excellent customer service skills Proficient computer skills PHYSICAL DEMANDS / WORK ENVIRONMENT : Daily use of computer operating instruments; stationary PC, Laptop PC, keyboard and mouse Light lifting of paperwork, folders or other general record keeping materials Operation of various office equipment: fax machine, telephone & voice mail system, stationary/lap top computer, e-mail system, scanner, and copier Lifting up to 40 pounds occasionally, and/or up to 25 pounds frequently Walks frequently May be required to sit or stand for extended periods of time Risk of exposure to hazardous conditions and blood borne pathogens Occasional reaching, twisting, bending