Pre Op RN

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionPosition SummaryThe Pre-Operative Registered Nurse (Pre-Op RN) provides comprehensive nursing care to patients preparing for surgical and procedural interventions. The RN is responsible for completing pre-operative assessments, verifying patient readiness for surgery, administering medications and IV therapy, providing patient education, and collaborating with the surgical and anesthesia teams to ensure safe and efficient progression to the operating room.Key ResponsibilitiesPerform comprehensive pre-operative nursing assessments, including medical history, allergies, medications, vital signs, and current health status.Verify surgical procedure, consent forms, patient identification, surgical site, and completion of required documentation.Review laboratory results, diagnostic testing, and other pre-operative requirements and communicate abnormal findings to the appropriate provider.Initiate and maintain peripheral IV access and administer IV fluids and medications as ordered.Complete medication reconciliation and verify adherence to pre-operative medication instructions.Prepare patients physically and emotionally for surgical or procedural interventions.Provide education to patients and families regarding the procedure, anticipated recovery, pain management, and post-operative expectations.Coordinate closely with anesthesia providers, surgeons, operating room staff, PACU nurses, and other members of the interdisciplinary team.Recognize changes in patient condition and initiate appropriate nursing interventions.Ensure completion of pre-operative checklists and required safety protocols before patient transfer to the operating room.Maintain accurate, timely, and complete documentation in the electronic medical record.Follow infection-prevention, medication-safety, patient-identification, and surgical-safety standards.Assist with maintaining efficient patient flow and on-time surgical starts in a fast-paced perioperative environment.Required QualificationsCurrent, unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license.Current BLS certification.ACLS certification as required by facility.Strong IV insertion and venipuncture skills.Experience caring for pre-operative surgical patients.Ability to recognize and respond appropriately to changes in patient condition.Strong assessment, communication, organization, and time-management skills.Ability to work effectively in a high-volume, fast-paced surgical environment.Preferred ExperiencePrevious Pre-Op/PACU experience in an acute-care hospital.Experience with multiple surgical specialties.Familiarity with Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols.Experience working with anesthesia and surgical teams.Experience with electronic medical record systems.Ideal CandidateThe ideal Pre-Op RN is highly organized, clinically confident, and comfortable managing multiple patients while maintaining attention to detail. The RN should have strong IV and assessment skills and be able to identify potential concerns before surgery to ensure patients are appropriately prepared and cleared for their procedure.