Registered Nurse PACU

Job TypeFull-timeDescriptionProvides nursing care to the surgical patient. Involves assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of surgical patient in the immediate post-anesthetic period. Provides PACU/Recovery nursing care to patients in the facility by performing the following duties. The PACU RN is responsible for maintaining clinical, communication and personal knowledge and skills required to meet the challenge of delivering safe and effective patient care in the PACU.Demonstrates competency in all procedures within the scope of practice, as appropriate to the ages of the patient served, including the ability to obtain, interpret, and communicate information in terms of the patient's needs, a knowledge of growth and development, and an understanding of the range of treatment needed by the following age groups: INFANT (0-1 year) PEDIATRIC (2-12 years) ADOLESCENT (13-17 years) ADULT (18-69 years) GERIATRIC (70+ years) The Registered Nurse is responsible for utilization of the nursing process in all aspects of the delivery of patient care and completion of all activities according to established policy, procedure, and protocol.Communicates accurate and timely information regarding patients and their care and/or their significant othersRecords pertinent information clearly, accurately and in a timely mannerDemonstrates positive interpersonal relationships with patients, significant others, and co-workersUtilities appropriate lines of communicationAssess the health status of the patient by collecting date via:i. Patient interviewii. Performance of a physical assessment for all age groups according to the plan of careiii. Recognizes variances in the assessment which are normal/abnormal for the age groupiv. Review of recordsv. Consultation with other members of the perioperative teamOrganizes a plan of care that incorporates physician prescribes treatments, nursing assignments and diagnostic date in a manner that:i. Is prioritized, timely & integrated with the surgical plan of careii. Gathering supplies, x-rays and instruments/equipment for casesAs an Admission/Discharge RN:Completes admission on patient admission as evidenced by ongoing chart reviewCompletes all necessary lab work and IV's in timely and efficient mannerPrepares the patient for discharge in the following ways, as evidenced by ongoing chart review:Evaluates the patient's progress for achievement of outcomes/discharge criteriaProvides discharge instructions to the patient/SOValidates ability of the patient/SO to mange continuing care needs after discharge, through post-op phone callsProvides education according to the specific knowledge/skill level of the patient/SO to meet the patient's ongoing health needs including:Safe and effective use of medication including food-drug interaction, as evidenced by chart reviewSafe and effective use of medical equipment, if applicableWhen and how to obtain further treatmentImplementation of teaching protocols for patient educationAs a PACU RN:Implements orders for post-anesthesia care of patientsImplements standing orders for critical care emergenciesDemonstrates knowledge of critical care medications and administers them properly according to policyChanges the patients plan of care to meet outcomesDocuments patient care:In a eligible mannerAccording to form guidelinesAccording to protocolContent reflects patient conditionRestocks area with applicable suppliesPerforms appropriate cleaning functions for the unitParticipate in conference, committee meetings, and educational programs as necessaryObtains appropriate patient health historyParticipates in appropriate patient safety related practicesClinical Leadership:Demonstrates appropriate judgment and decision-making skillsActs as the patient's advocate in meeting his/her physical and psychological needsServes as a preceptor and orients new members of the surgical teamDemonstrates effective communication skills and the ability to recognize and intervene in stressful situations involving the patient, significant other and/or team membersCreates and maintains a safe and comfortable environment in which surgery can take placeExplains procedures and treatments to patient to gain cooperation, understanding, and ally apprehensionAdministers prescribed medications and treatments in accordance with approved nursing techniquePrepares equipment and aids physician during treatment and examination of patientMaintains awareness of comfort and safety needs of patientObserves patient, records significant conditions and reactions, and notifies supervisor or Physician of patient's condition and reaction to drugs, treatments, and significant incidents. Take temperature, pulse, blood pressure, and other vial signs to detect deviations from normal assess condition of patient. Responds to life saving situation based upon nursing standards, policies, procedures, and protocolDocuments nursing history and physical assessment for assigned patientsInitiatives a patient education plan according to the individualized needs of the patient, as prescribed by physician and/or facility policy including patient and family instructionPrepares rooms, sterile instruments, equipment, and supplies for surgery.Responsible for all logs and documentation in regard to medication controlParticipates in facility quality improvement activities RequirementsUnderstanding and commitment to the mission, values, and philosophy of the organizationCurrent license as a RNAwareness of changing trends in nursing trends in nursing and ability to adaptKnowledge and skills to provide patient care appropriate to specific location and patient populationAbility to function effectively in stressful situationsAbility to communicate in verbal and written methodsAbility and willingness to adjust schedule (trade or work extra) to meet the needs of the facilityBLS certification within 6 months of hireAbility to work under supervision as well as ability to oversee othersMust be able to meet physical demands of:Standing for prolonged periods of timeLifting/moving heavy objectsSalary Description$34.00 to $45.00 depending on experience