RN PRE-OPERATIVE & POST-OPERATIVE (PACU)

Job Description

Job Description

Job Summary

The Pre-Op/Post-Op Registered Nurse provides comprehensive, specialized nursing care to outpatients undergoing same-day surgical procedures. This dual role is responsible for the holistic preparation of the patient prior to surgery (Pre-Op) as well as the immediate post-anesthesia recovery and stabilization (PACU) required for a safe return home. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, possesses excellent clinical assessment skills, and delivers compassionate, patient-centered care.

Key Responsibilities

Pre-Operative Phase

• Patient Admission & Assessment: Perform comprehensive baseline physical and psychological assessments, review medical histories, allergies, and current medications.
• Surgical Readiness: Verify patient identity, NPO status, completed lab work/EKGs, and ensure correct surgical site marking according to facility protocols.
• Consents: Verify that all operative and informed surgical/anesthesia consents are signed and accurately documented.
• Clinical Prep: Establish peripheral IV access, initiate ordered IV fluids, and administer ordered pre-operative medications (antibiotics, anti-anxiety, etc.).
• Patient Education: Provide preoperative teaching to the patient and family members regarding what to expect during and after the procedure.

Post-Operative Phase (PACU)

• Airway & Recovery Management: Monitor and manage the patient's airway, breathing, and circulation as they emerge from general, regional, or local anesthesia.
• Vital Sign Monitoring: Routinely track and document vital signs, cardiac rhythms, and neurological status.
• Pain & Symptom Control: Assess and manage post-operative pain, nausea, and vomiting using prescribed medications and non-pharmacological interventions.
• Crisis Intervention: Recognize immediate post-op complications (e.g., respiratory depression, hemorrhage, cardiac events) and intervene appropriately with emergency protocols.

Discharge Phase

• Discharge Criteria Evaluation: Evaluate patient readiness for discharge using standardized scoring systems (e.g., Aldrete score).
• Patient & Caregiver Discharge Teaching: Deliver clear instructions regarding wound care, medication management, activity restrictions, and emergency contact details to the patient and their designated adult escort.