Registered Nurse PACU

Job Summary:


The Registered Nurse in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) provides specialized nursing care to patients recovering from anesthesia following surgical procedures. This role involves monitoring patient vital signs, managing pain and complications, and ensuring safe and effective recovery. The nurse collaborates with interdisciplinary teams and must be proficient in phlebotomy and IV placement. The position requires at least one year of relevant experience and certifications including ACLS, BLS, and PALS.

Responsibilities:

• Provide Phase I and Phase II recovery care to post-surgical patients.
• Monitor patient vital signs and respond to changes in condition promptly.
• Manage pain control and post-operative complications.
• Perform phlebotomy and establish intravenous access as required.
• Care for patients recovering from Endoscopy, Laparoscopic, General, Orthopedic, Spine, and Total Joint surgeries.
• Collaborate with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
• Document patient care accurately using Epic electronic health records.
• Maintain compliance with hospital policies and safety standards.
• Participate in mandatory competency assessments and continuing education.

Required Skills & Certifications:

• Minimum of 1 year nursing experience in PACU or related acute care setting.
• Active Registered Nurse license in the state of practice.
• Mandatory competency in phlebotomy and intravenous (IV) placement.
• Current certifications in ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support), BLS (Basic Life Support), and PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support).
• Proficiency with Epic electronic medical records system.

Preferred Skills & Certifications:

• Experience with orthopedic, spine, and total joint surgery patient care.
• Familiarity with Endoscopy and Laparoscopic post-operative care.
• Previous experience in a teaching hospital environment.

Special Considerations:

• Must be willing to work 2 weekend call shifts per month and up to 2 weeknight shifts as requested.
• Local candidates must reside more than 75 miles from the facility.
• Scrubs are provided; teal color required.
• Work environment is a short-term acute care teaching hospital with 471 staffed beds.

Scheduling:

• Schedule includes regular shifts with additional weekend call shifts (2 per month) and up to 2 weeknight shifts as needed.
• Shift assignments are determined by unit staffing needs and call rotation.