RN | PRN | Palouse Surgery Center | PAT/Preop

Post-Anesthesia Care Nurse

This role is responsible for providing age-appropriate patient care, conducting assessments, developing care plans, and monitoring patient outcomes. The RN will deliver competent and safe nursing care aligned with Gritman Medical Center's mission, values, and professional standards established by ASPAN, the Idaho State Board of Nursing, the American Nurses' Association, and The Joint Commission.

The RN will work collaboratively with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and the surgical team to ensure safe and efficient post-anesthesia patient recovery across all phases of care (Phase I, II, and III). This position requires a commitment to teamwork, professionalism, and patient-centered care.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical & Patient Care

• Deliver high-quality post-anesthesia care in PACU / Same Day Center settings.
• Perform patient assessments, interventions, and evaluations to ensure optimal recovery.
• Utilize aseptic techniques and adhere to PACU principles and procedures.
• Demonstrate a strong understanding of PACU equipment and patient monitoring.
• Actively participate in patient and family education.

Operational & Resource Management

• Work closely with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and circulating nurses to coordinate patient care.
• Ensure that necessary equipment, supplies, and positioning devices are available.
• Assist with ordering and restocking supplies in assigned areas.
• Participate in daily crash cart checks and AccuChek monitoring.
• Take 24-hour call shifts as scheduled (one weeknight every two weeks and one weekend every 8-10 weeks).

Compliance & Performance Improvement

• Maintain knowledge of current professional techniques through continuing education (minimum 10 CEUs per year).
• Engage in quality improvement initiatives and unit-based educational programs.
• Ensure compliance with hospital safety regulations, policies, and standards.
• Support risk management and continuous quality improvement efforts.

Professionalism & Team Engagement

• Serve as a role model for nursing excellence, mentoring new personnel and students.
• Adhere to hospital policies on attendance, punctuality, and workplace conduct.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, respect, and patient-centered care.

Job Requirements

Education & Certifications

• Graduate of an accredited nursing program.
• Eligible for Idaho State Nursing Board licensure or reciprocity.
• Must demonstrate competency in core nursing skills within 90 days of hire.
• Required Certifications:
• Registered Nurse (RN) License Idaho or Compact State
• Basic Life Support (BLS)
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)

Experience & Skills

• Preferred: Minimum 2 years of PACU/Recovery experience.
• Strong knowledge of PACU principles, aseptic technique, and medical terminology.
• Ability to function under stress, multitask, and maintain interpersonal relationships.
• Demonstrates a commitment to professional development and ongoing learning.

Work Conditions & Physical Demands

• Patient Population: Neonates, pediatrics, adolescents, adults, and geriatrics.
• Physical Demands: Frequent lifting (up to 40 lbs.), patient transfers, standing, kneeling, and fine motor activities.
• Environmental Conditions: Exposure to bloodborne pathogens, unpredictable patient conditions, and variable shift hours.

Qualifications

Required

Associates or better in Nursing.

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.