RN PrePostPACU Days FT

Description

Job Summary

The Registered Nurse (RN) provides patient-centered care through the nursing process of assessment diagnosis planning implementation and evaluation. This role is responsible for coordinating and delivering high-quality care based on established clinical protocols and physician/provider orders. The RN collaborates with physicians nurses and other healthcare professionals to ensure effective patient care and desired outcomes while maintaining a supportive and compassionate environment for patients and their families.

Essential Functions

• Coordinates and delivers high-quality patient-centered care in accordance with organizational policies protocols and the nursing process.
• Conducts thorough patient assessments and documents findings accurately reporting changes in condition to the appropriate care team members.
• Utilizes knowledge of human growth and development to provide age-appropriate care and education.
• Administers prescribed medications monitors for side effects and documents administration in accordance with standards of practice.
• Assists physicians during procedures within the scope of documented competency and skill level.
• Collaborates with the healthcare team to develop implement and evaluate individualized care plans based on patient assessments and needs.
• Responds to medical emergencies and participates in life-saving interventions such as CPR and code team activities as appropriate.
• Advocates for the rights and needs of patients ensuring their voices are heard and respected in care planning and delivery.
• Provides patient and family education on medical conditions treatment plans and post-discharge care ensuring understanding and adherence to instructions.
• Implements and adheres to infection control protocols to prevent the spread of healthcare-associated infections.
• Monitors and operates medical equipment (e.g. IV pumps monitors ventilators) as needed for patient care and safety.
• Promotes patient safety by adhering to National Patient Safety Goals and maintaining a clean safe environment for patients and staff.
• Participates in audits chart reviews and compliance checks to ensure adherence to standards of practice and regulatory requirements.
• Demonstrates responsible decision-making in planning delegating and providing care based on patient needs and organizational policies.
• Documents patient care and education thoroughly and promptly in the medical record.
• Engages in professional development to maintain clinical competency and understanding of current nursing standards and regulations.
• Participates in performance improvement initiatives including data collection and process development to enhance patient outcomes and care delivery.
• PACU RN:
  • Assesses the patients level of consciousness and responsiveness as they wake up from anesthesia.
  • Evaluates pain levels and administers pain medications as prescribed.
  • Observes any side effects of anesthesia such as nausea vomiting shivering or muscle aches.
  • Monitors for and respond to any post-operative complications.
  • Administers medications including pain relievers and other post-operative medications as prescribed.
  • Regulates intravenous (IV) fluids and monitor fluid balance.
  • Checks and changes dressings on surgical wounds.
  • Ensures a clear airway and provide oxygen support as needed.
  • Educates patients and families about post-surgery care potential complications and discharge instructions.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• 0-2 years of experience in a clinical nursing role or student clinical rotations in an acute care setting required

Knowledge Skills and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of the nursing process and clinical nursing practices.
• Ability to perform thorough patient assessments and communicate findings effectively.
• Proficient in administering medications and monitoring for side effects.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in documenting patient care.
• Knowledge of safety standards infection control and quality improvement initiatives.

Licenses and Certifications

• RN - Registered Nurse - State Licensure and/or Compact State Licensure required
• BCLS - Basic Life Support required
• ACLS - Advanced Cardiac Life Support preferred
• PALS - Pediatric Advanced Life Support preferred
• NRP - Neonatal Resuscitation preferred
• Refer to facility or unit-specific guidelines for additional requirements.