Custodial Care Surgical Recovery Nurse (LVN)

InHands Postoperative Therapy and Recovery is a private recovery and lymphatic-based care clinic providing specialized postoperative care for patients recovering from ambulatory surgical procedures. Our goal is to bridge the gap between surgical discharge and home recovery with professional nursing oversight, high-end comfort, and individualized care. We are seeking a skilled and compassionate Surgical Recovery Nurse (LVN) to support our clients during their most vulnerable post-surgical hours. This position is a per diem role.

Position Summary:

The Surgical Recovery Nurse is responsible for monitoring and supporting patients immediately following surgery during the overnight hours and for their entire length of stay. This role includes assessing vital signs, pain levels, surgical sites, drains, mobility, passing meds, and ensuring a safe and comfortable healing environment. The nurse will also communicate relevant updates to the clinical team and provide patient education and caregiver training when appropriate.

Key Responsibilities:

Clinical Monitoring & Care:

• Monitor vital signs, fluid input and output, dressings, and surgical sites in accordance with postoperative protocols
• Administer medications (as ordered) and assist with pain management
• Provide wound care, drain maintenance, and dressing changes as appropriate to licensure
• Assist patients with mobility, toileting, and repositioning to prevent complications and ensure maximal comfort
• Maintain detailed and accurate documentation in EMR of patient status and nursing interventions

Patient Safety & Comfort:

• Respond to patient concerns or emergencies calmly and promptly
• Ensure a clean, safe, and restful recovery environment throughout the day and night
• Offer emotional reassurance and patient-centered care in a recovery suite setting
• Maintain infection control standards and ensure proper disposal of medical waste
• Assist with providing optimal nutrition and supplemental therapies (red light therapy, aromatherapy, guided meditations)
• Maintain high level of tidiness in recovery suites, housekeeping tasks required

Communication & Handoff:

• Provide detailed shift reports to incoming nursing staff or clinical team upon shift change
• Communicate patient changes or concerns to the on-call physician, medical director, or clinical supervisor as needed
• Collaborate with Lymphatic Therapists and Clinical Support Specialists for integrated care planning after discharge

Qualifications:

Required:

• Current, valid LVN license in California
• BLS (Basic Life Support) certification, ACLS
• Minimum 1 year of nursing experience (surgical, med-surg, recovery, or step-down care preferred)
• Strong assessment and clinical documentation skills
• Ability to work independently and respond effectively in an overnight setting

Preferred:

• Experience with surgery recovery or private-duty nursing
• Familiarity with postop protocols for procedures
• IV certification (for LVNs)
• Familiarity with EMR systems

Schedule:

• Overnight shifts (e.g., 7:00 PM – 7:00 AM)
• Mid shifts (e.g., 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
• Morning/Day shifts (e.g., 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM, 7:30 AM – 12:00 PM)
• Per Diem shift availability 2 shifts/month
• Weekend and holiday availability may be required
• Competitive hourly and flat-rate pay
• Low census
• Shift differentials for overnight work
• Holiday pay
• Paid training and continuing education opportunities
• Staff wellness and aesthetic service discounts