Pre & Post Operative PACU RN - PRN

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary

The Pre-Operative/Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) Registered Nurse (RN) is responsible for providing comprehensive nursing care to surgical patients throughout the pre-operative and post-operative phases of care. This position conducts pre-operative assessments, prepares patients for surgery, monitors patients recovering from anesthesia, administers prescribed treatments and medications, and responds promptly to changes in patient condition. The RN collaborates with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and the interdisciplinary healthcare team to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality patient care while promoting positive patient outcomes. This role requires strong clinical judgment, effective communication, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced perioperative environment while maintaining compliance with hospital policies, regulatory requirements, and evidence-based nursing practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Pre-Operative Care
  • Conduct pre-operative assessments including medical history, medication review, allergies, and vital signs.
  • Ensure proper documentation, consent verification, and patient readiness for surgery.
  • Provide patient and family education regarding surgical procedures, anesthesia, and recovery expectations.
  • Collaborate with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and OR staff to optimize surgical preparation.
• Post-Operative Care (PACU / Surgical Unit)
  • Monitor patients emerging from anesthesia, assessing respiratory status, pain levels, surgical site condition, and vitals.
  • Administer medications including pain management and post-anesthesia drugs as prescribed.
  • Recognize and respond to complications such as airway obstruction, bleeding, or abnormal vital signs.
  • Provide emotional support and education to patients and families during recovery.
  • Document assessments, interventions, and patient responses in the electronic health record accurately and promptly.
• General Responsibilities
  • Communicate effectively with the interdisciplinary team to coordinate care and ensure continuity.
  • Maintain a safe and clean environment adhering to infection control and hospital protocols.
  • Participate in shift hand-offs, bedside reporting, and staff meetings.
  • Support and mentor newer staff or students as appropriate.

Qualifications

• Licensure: Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in Louisiana or Compact License.
• Experience: Minimum 1 year of acute care RN experience , preferably in pre-op, PACU, or surgical/medical-surgical settings.
• Education: Graduate of an accredited School of Nursing (ADN required; BSN preferred).
• Certifications:
  • BLS (Basic Life Support) - required.
  • ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) - required or must obtain within 3 months of hire.
  • PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) - required or must obtain within 3 months of hire

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in pre-operative, PACU, or surgical nursing.
• Strong IV insertion and airway management skills.
• Familiarity with electronic health record systems (e.g., Epic, Cerner).
• Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN) or Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse (CAPA) preferred.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to lift and move patients and equipment (up to 50 lbs).
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and moving during 12-hour night shifts.
• Exposure to surgical patients, medications, blood/body fluids, and medical equipment.
• Fast-paced environment requiring rapid assessment and decision-making skills.

Schedule & Shift Details

• Shift: PRN, depending on unit need.
• Weekends & Holidays: Rotation required.
• On-Call: May be required depending on surgical volume and unit staffing.