PACU RN

The PACU RN provides skilled, compassionate care to patients immediately following surgical procedures. This role is responsible for recovering patients from anesthesia, monitoring for complications, and providing high-quality care, ensuring patient safety and stability before transfer to an inpatient unit or discharge. Key Responsibilities:Patient Assessment & Monitoring: Monitor and record vital signs, level of consciousness, and airway patency in the immediate post-anesthesia phase.Anesthesia Recovery: Manage patient emergence from sedation, including the reversal of anesthetic agents and monitoring for complications (nausea, pain, respiratory distress).Pain & Symptom Management: Administer medications, including IV pain management, to ensure comfort.Critical Thinking: Identify post-operative complications promptly and initiate appropriate interventions.Documentation: Accurately document patient status, interventions, and care plans within the electronic health record.Collaboration: Work closely with anesthesiologists, surgeons, and nurses to provide comprehensive care.Family Education: Provide clear post-operative instructions to patients and their family members upon discharge.Qualifications:Education: Graduate of an accredited Registered Nursing program; BSN preferred.Licensure: Current RN license in the Commonwealth of Virginia.Certifications: BLS (Basic Life Support) and ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support) required.Experience: Previous PACU, ICU, or Emergency Room experience is strongly preferred.Required Skills:Strong critical thinking and rapid assessment skills.Proficiency in airway management and intravenous insertion.Excellent communication skills for patient care and teamwork.Commitment to safety and patient advocacy.