RN PACU (Days)

Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) Nurse

The post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) nurse cares for patients who have undergone anesthesia. The post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) nurse is responsible for observing and treating a patient postoperation and making sure that they safely awake from anesthesia. The PACU nurse must monitor vital signs and levels of consciousness to make sure that the sedation is wearing off properly, there are no adverse reactions occurring and patients are regaining consciousness.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coordinates patient care. Communicates with surgeon and anesthesiologist continuously as needed about patient conditions; receives direction for patient management. Intercedes to maintain optimum homeostasis
• Demonstrates knowledge of perioperative factors that alter immediate postoperative phase. Utilizes nursing procedures as a media for communication and interaction with patient
• Identifies physical symptoms/changes and takes appropriate action in a timely manner
• Demonstrates knowledge of airway management and procedures and the ability to use the equipment
• Demonstrates ability to assess cardio-respiratory systems for changes and provide appropriate treatment
• Observes behavioral and physiologic changes due to medications; takes appropriate action and documents
• Adjusts and acts upon expectations of patient's behavior according to the effect medication has on the patient
• Demonstrates ability to adequately assess and reassess pain and uses appropriate pain management techniques
• Demonstrates knowledge of anesthetic drugs, actions and side effects
• Demonstrates knowledge of arterial lines, central lines, spinal/epidural catheters and how to document
• Carries out medical/surgical asepsis during treatments and special procedures
• Carries out established techniques for safe administration of medications and parenteral fluids, according to hospital policy and procedure
• Carries out safety measures to prevent patient from harming self or others
• Provides explanations and teaching to patient/family, as necessary
• Protects patient's sensitivities and right to privacy; maintains confidentiality at all times
• Other duties as assigned

Minimum Requirements:

• Current RN licensure in the state in which RN is working.
• ACLS and PALS certification per contract requirements.
• Complies with all relevant professional standards of practice
• Participation and completion of Amergis' Competency program when applicable
• Current CPR if applicable
• TB Questionnaire, PPD or chest x-ray if applicable
• Current Health certificate (per contract or state regulation)
• Must meet all federal, state and local requirements
• Successful completion of new hire training as applicable to job site
• Understand patient confidentiality and HIPAA requirements
• Ability to effectively elicit/provide information to and from appropriate individuals (including, but not limited to, supervisors, co-workers, clients) via strong communication skills; proficiency in the English language is required
• Computer proficiency required
• Must be at least 18 years of age

Benefits At Amergis

• Competitive pay & weekly paychecks
• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
• 401(k) savings plan
• Awards and recognition programs