About the RoleThe Pre-Op/PACU RN is responsible for comprehensive nursing care of surgical patients before and after procedures, including assessment, preparation, monitoring, recovery, discharge readiness, and patient education. The RN ensures compliance with state, federal, and accreditation standards while maintaining patient safety as the highest priority.
What You'll Be DoingPreoperative Responsibilities- Conduct thorough patient assessments and review medical histories
- Verify surgical consent, procedure, and site
- Start IV lines and administer preoperative medications as ordered
- Ensure completion of required documentation and checklist compliance
- Educate patients and families regarding procedures and recovery expectations
- Communicate effectively with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and OR staff
PACU Responsibilities- Monitor patients recovering from anesthesia using appropriate standards of care
- Assess airway, respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological status, and pain levels
- Administer medications and manage post-operative pain and nausea
- Recovers patients per Recovery Phase I and II policy.
- Demonstrates knowledge of anesthesia agents.
- Interprets dysrhythmias, documents, and intervenes appropriately.
- Keeps family/significant others informed of patient progress.
- Recognize and respond promptly to complications or changes in condition
- Document recovery progress and discharge criteria
- Anticipates potential length of stay or discharge problems
- Provide discharge instructions to patients and caregivers
General Responsibilities- Adheres to infection control standards specific to patient care.
- Interprets clinical data.
- Acts as a patient advocate and uphold patient rights.
- Documents medication use and controlled substance use.
- Secures patient belongings on admission and throughout discharge.
- Regularly attends staff meeting, orientations, and in-services.
- Maintains confidentiality of all information in the medical record and assigned computer codes.
- Maintains current knowledge of ambulatory post-anesthesia/peri-operative nursing practice. Utilizes opportunities for professional growth by attending continuing education programs.
- Maintains and ensures dress code and decorum.
- Promotes good image of Center to patients, physicians, vendors and community.
- Demonstrates professional behavior by being technically competent, skilled and responsive to the Center's customers in a compassionate, efficient and effective manner.
- Demonstrates knowledge of surgical emergency preparedness, Malignant hypothermia. Cardiac Arrest, Latex Allergy.
- Performs daily checks of code carts and other environment of care checklists
- Works flexible hours assuming responsibility and accountability for providing patient care.
- Completes pre-operative assessments and post-operative follow up calls and completes all documentations within the defined timeframe.
What We Expect From YouRequired- Active and unrestricted New Jersey RN license
- Minimum 2-4 years of experience in Pre-Op, PACU, Critical Care, or Emergency Nursing
- Current BLS certification
- Current ACLS certification
- Knowledge of ambulatory surgery workflows and patient safety standards
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team-based environment
- Ability to communicate in English, both orally and in writing required
- Strong interpersonal and organizational skills
- Strong clinical judgment and attention to detail
- Proficiency with electronic medical record documentation
- Ability to multitask and adapt to a fast-paced surgical environment
Preferred- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- 5+ years of experience
Salary Range:
$40.00-$54.00 per hour
The compensation range listed reflects the anticipated base pay for this position. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as relevant experience, education, skills, and work location.
What We are Offer YouBeyond competitive compensation, our well-rounded benefits package includes a range of comprehensive medical, dental and vision plans, HSA / FSA, 401(k) matching, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and more.
