Registered Nurse PACU

Job Description

Job Description

A hospital in Los Alamos is seeking an experienced Registered Nurse to join its Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU). This is a hands-on clinical role in a supportive surgical environment where patient safety, recovery monitoring, and attentive post-operative care are the focus.

This position offers the opportunity to work closely with surgical and anesthesia teams while caring for patients as they transition out of procedures and begin their recovery process.

Position Overview

The PACU Registered Nurse is responsible for providing direct care to patients recovering from anesthesia following surgical or procedural interventions. This role requires strong assessment skills, attention to detail, and the ability to respond quickly to changes in patient condition.

Care is centered on maintaining patient stability, managing pain and comfort, and ensuring safe progression toward discharge or transfer.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor patients recovering from anesthesia in the post-operative setting
• Assess vital signs, airway status, level of consciousness, and overall recovery progress
• Manage pain control measures and patient comfort interventions
• Identify and respond to post-anesthesia complications or changes in condition
• Coordinate with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other clinical staff regarding patient status
• Ensure safe transfer of patients to inpatient units or discharge areas
• Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation
• Follow established protocols, safety standards, and recovery guidelines
• Support a smooth and efficient patient flow through the surgical recovery process

Qualifications

• Associate Degree in Nursing required
• Active and unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license required
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required
• Minimum of 1 year of PACU experience required
• Strong clinical assessment and critical thinking skills in a post-anesthesia setting

Benefits

• Partial relocation assistance available for qualified candidates
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid time off and holiday benefits
• Retirement savings program
• Continuing education and professional development support
• Opportunity to work in a specialized surgical recovery environment
• Collaborative team-based clinical setting focused on patient safety and quality care

This role is ideal for a nurse who enjoys focused, fast-paced post-surgical care and values working closely with a multidisciplinary surgical team.