Hospital - PACU RN II (3x12s)

Job Description

The RN II, PACU is a licensed staff nurse functioning at the competent level, responsible for delivering high-quality, post-anesthesia nursing care to patients recovering from surgical procedures. This includes monitoring vitals, managing airways, administering medications for pain and nausea, and responding to recovery-related complications. The RN II works collaboratively with anesthesia providers, surgical teams, and inpatient units to ensure a safe and efficient recovery process. This nurse uses strong assessment, critical thinking, and communication skills to support timely interventions and improve patient outcomes. The RN II may also participate in shared governance, unit improvement efforts, and preceptorship of new staff.

Responsibilities

• Monitors patients during anesthesia recovery, assessing vitals, pain, and consciousness level.
• Administers medications for pain, nausea, or sedation as ordered; monitors effects.
• Provides airway management, suctioning, and oxygen support per patient condition.
• Recognizes and responds to anesthesia-related complications or emergent events.
• Documents recovery scores, assessments, interventions, and outcomes accurately in the EMR.
• Collaborates with anesthesia and surgical providers to coordinate patient handoffs.
• Provides post-operative education to patients and families during discharge or transfer.
• Participates in shift briefings and huddles to support shared goals and communication.
• Uses therapeutic communication to reduce patient anxiety and improve comfort.
• Functions independently to prioritize patient care during periods of high acuity.
• Acts as a preceptor for new PACU nurses or nursing students as needed. Assists in readiness and stocking of the PACU environment and specialized equipment.
• Participates in near-miss reporting and supports efforts to improve patient safety.
• Escalates concerns related to pain control, hemodynamic instability, or delayed recovery.
• Engages in evidence-based discussions or improvement initiatives related to PACU flow.
• Promotes team collaboration and a positive work environment.
• Helps track and meet department goals related to length of stay, safety, and patient satisfaction.
• Performs other job-related duties to support high-quality, safe post-anesthesia recovery.

Qualifications

• Competent in post-anesthesia monitoring, airway support, and pain and nausea management.
• Uses clinical judgment to identify and respond to post-op complications.
• Proficient in EKG monitoring and ACLS response (as required for PACU).
• Strong documentation and prioritization skills in a high-acuity, time-sensitive environment.
• Uses effective communication with anesthesia, surgeons, patients, and families.
• Demonstrates cultural sensitivity and adapts teaching for patients in recovery.
• Able to function independently and escalate care when needed.
• Maintains proficiency with EMR and post-op recovery documentation.
• Collaborates well in a multidisciplinary team during rapid turnover or complex recovery.
• Uses critical thinking skills and clinical judgment to work autonomously as defined by the Nurse Practice Act.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and EMR platforms.
• Ability to serve as a preceptor and a mentor by fostering a teaching environment.

Education:

• Bachelor's of Science in Nursing required

Certification/Licensure:

• Current Texas Board of Nursing (or Compact State) RN license; Or a Temporary Texas RN License (Permanent TX license within 90 days upon hire).
• American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) certification, within 7 days of hire.

Required Skills

• One (1) year of nursing experience in a healthcare environment required. Experience in ICU, ER, PACU or critical care preferred.