Perioperative/PACU Registered Nurse (RN)

Shift Information: Days: 0700-1730, 4 days/week; call required

Minimum Years of Experience: 2 years

Holiday Coverage Required: Yes

Certifications/Requirements

• General Certifications: BLS/BCLS, ACLS, PALS
• Nursing Certifications: TNCC (must obtain within 6 months of hire)
• Current state licensure as a Registered Professional Nurse
• National perioperative certification preferred

Job Summary

The Outpatient Services/PACU Nurse is responsible for ensuring safe preparation, education, and discharge of patients scheduled for procedures. Responsibilities include assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation of patients in outpatient services, pre-operative, post-operative, PACU, and procedural sedation. The nurse must demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to care for patients of varying ages.

Experience

Preferred: At least 2 years of experience in an acute care or surgical services area.

Skills

• Knowledge of perioperative and post-anesthesia care nursing principles
• Understanding of aseptic techniques and infection control principles
• Able to perform effectively in high-stress situations
• Excellent communication skills and ability to interact effectively with diverse individuals

Age Groups Served

• Newborn
• Infant
• School Age (Birth through 1 Month; 1 Month through 5 years; 6 years through 12 years)
• Adolescent/Teenager (13 years through 17 years)
• Young Adult (18 years through 34 years)
• Middle Adult (35 years through 50 years)
• Mature Adult (51 years through 69 years)
• Geriatric Adult (70 years and older)

Responsibilities

• Provide direct patient care, evaluate outcomes, and adjust nursing care appropriately to ensure optimal patient care.
• Perform focused assessments and reassessments across various age groups.
• Monitor patients’ hemodynamic status and interpret results accurately.
• Identify arrhythmias and intervene as per ACLS and PALS guidelines.
• Prepare patients for examination/procedures and assist the physician as needed.
• Maintain accurate and continuous nursing documentation.
• Treat patients and families with respect and dignity, serving as a liaison between the patient and healthcare providers.
• Educate patients based on identified learning needs and evaluate learning effectiveness.
• Stay updated on medications, their administration, and implications based on patient conditions.
• Perform treatments and procedures within the scope of training.

Secondary Functions

• Ensure cleanliness and readiness of all rooms and work areas.
• Verify and restock supplies as needed.
• Complete department tasks and compliance checks as scheduled.
• Communicate concerns through the appropriate chain of command.
• Assist with onboarding new employees and supervising nursing students.
• Participate in mandatory in-service training and professional development.
• Coordinate with other departments for smooth patient transfers.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Physical Demands

• Standing, walking, lifting, carrying, or pushing of up to 35 pounds independently.
• Use of assistive devices or assistance when lifting more than 35 pounds.
• Maintaining various physical activities, with requirements potentially exceeding these ranges.

Exposure Category

Tasks may involve exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissues, necessitating adherence to safety protocols.