RN PACU

Job Summary

The Registered Nurse (RN) provides patient-centered care through the nursing process of assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. This role is responsible for coordinating and delivering high-quality care based on established clinical protocols and physician/provider orders. The RN collaborates with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure effective patient care and desired outcomes, while maintaining a supportive and compassionate environment for patients and their families.

Essential Functions

• Coordinates and delivers high-quality, patient-centered care in accordance with organizational policies, protocols, and the nursing process.

• Conducts thorough patient assessments and documents findings accurately, reporting changes in condition to the appropriate care team members.

• Utilizes knowledge of human growth and development to provide age-appropriate care and education.

• Administers prescribed medications, monitors for side effects, and documents administration in accordance with standards of practice.

• Assists physicians during procedures within the scope of documented competency and skill level.

• Collaborates with the healthcare team to develop, implement, and evaluate individualized care plans based on patient assessments and needs.

• Responds to medical emergencies and participates in life-saving interventions, such as CPR and code team activities, as appropriate.

• Advocates for the rights and needs of patients, ensuring their voices are heard and respected in care planning and delivery.

• Provides patient and family education on medical conditions, treatment plans, and post-discharge care, ensuring understanding and adherence to instructions.

• Implements and adheres to infection control protocols to prevent the spread of healthcare-associated infections.

• Monitors and operates medical equipment (e.g., IV pumps, monitors, ventilators) as needed for patient care and safety.

• Promotes patient safety by adhering to National Patient Safety Goals and maintaining a clean, safe environment for patients and staff.

• Participates in audits, chart reviews, and compliance checks to ensure adherence to standards of practice and regulatory requirements.

• Demonstrates responsible decision-making in planning, delegating, and providing care based on patient needs and organizational policies.

• Documents patient care and education thoroughly and promptly in the medical record.

• Engages in professional development to maintain clinical competency and understanding of current nursing standards and regulations.

• Participates in performance improvement initiatives, including data collection and process development, to enhance patient outcomes and care delivery.

• PACU RN:

• Assesses the patient's level of consciousness and responsiveness as they wake up from anesthesia.

• Evaluates pain levels and administers pain medications as prescribed.

• Observes any side effects of anesthesia, such as nausea, vomiting, shivering, or muscle aches.

• Monitors for and respond to any post-operative complications.

• Administers medications, including pain relievers and other post-operative medications, as prescribed.

• Regulates intravenous (IV) fluids and monitor fluid balance.

• Checks and changes dressings on surgical wounds.

• Ensures a clear airway and provide oxygen support as needed.

• Educates patients and families about post-surgery care, potential complications, and discharge instructions.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.

• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• 0-2 years of experience in a clinical nursing role or student clinical rotations in an acute care setting required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of the nursing process and clinical nursing practices.

• Ability to perform thorough patient assessments and communicate findings effectively.

• Proficient in administering medications and monitoring for side effects.

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams.

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in documenting patient care.

• Knowledge of safety standards, infection control, and quality improvement initiatives.

Licenses and Certifications

• RN - Registered Nurse - State Licensure and/or Compact State Licensure required

• BCLS - Basic Life Support required

• ACLS - Advanced Cardiac Life Support preferred

• PALS - Pediatric Advanced Life Support preferred

• NRP - Neonatal Resuscitation preferred

• Refer to facility or unit-specific guidelines for additional requirements.

Equal Employment Opportunity

This organization does not discriminate in any way to deprive any person of employment opportunities or otherwise adversely affect the status of any employee because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, citizenship, veteran status, or military or uniformed services, in accordance with all applicable governmental laws and regulations. In addition, the facility complies with all applicable federal, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment including, but not limited to: hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. If you are an applicant with a mental or physical disability who needs a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, contact the director of Human Resources at the facility to which you are seeking employment; Simply go to to obtain the main telephone number of the facility and ask for Human Resources.