The RN in the Pre-Op area and PACU provides expert professional nursing care for the patient during the pre- and post-operative course. The RN assesses, plans, implements, and evaluates the care of the patient. The RN will assure that the patient is prepared for discharge by providing the necessary education to the patient and his responsible caregiver.

Must be a graduate from an accredited school of nursing with a current nursing license in the state of Alabama. Must have current CPR certification. Two years of PACU, ICU or ER experience is desired. ACLS certification is preferred.

Preferred accomplishments include experience in orthopaedic outpatient surgery. Must be able to communicate effectively and have an ability to work compatibly with all physicians and staff. Possess strong organizational skills and a clear understanding of the importance of efficiency and cost effectiveness in an outpatient surgery center.

Must have the knowledge and clinical skills to perform the job duties of a Pre-Op and Recovery Room nurse.

Must be able to make quick assessments of patients and be able to handle emergency situations appropriately.

Physical guidelines include ability to stand/walk for up to eight hours per day; bend, stoop, twist; assist patients in turning, rising from recliners and stretchers; assist patients in and out of wheelchairs; push wheelchairs; assist with the moving of patients on and off the operating room table.

Ability to lift up to 25 pounds and carry materials weighing up to 25 pounds.

Uses and discloses Protected Health Information (PHI) according to the facility’s policies and procedures.

This job is designated as a Category I job using OSHA definitions. This means there are tasks that involve exposure to blood or other potentially infectious material. Use of appropriate protective measures is required for any employee engaged in Category I tasks.

1. Work with all members of the health care team to provide optimal care to the patient throughout his surgical experience.

2. Maintain a friendly, positive, and caring attitude with all patients, physicians, and staff.

3. Maintain excellent physical and mental health.

4. Provide patient education during all phases of the patient’s experience at the Center.

5. Ensure that the proper supplies and equipment are available in the Pre-Op and PACU.

6. Ensure that equipment is functioning properly. Follow IFU’s for equipment use.

7. Assist supervisor with preparation of budget.

8. Charge for all supplies used in Pre-Op and PACU. Assist with inventory control by proper count of supplies/time used.

9. Appropriately document patient care provided.

10. Attend continuing education offerings to remain current with orthopaedic and ASC issues.

11. Display professionalism at work and in the community.

12. Take an active role on committees within the organization.

13. Identify actual and potential risks to patients and others. Take action to minimize or eliminate risk and maximize safety in the facility.

JOB DUTIES:

1. Prepare for the arrival of patients to the surgery center by ensuring that proper supplies and equipment are available.

2. Review the patient chart and health history to ensure that the necessary pre-operative evaluations have been completed. Ensure that the consent form has been signed.

3. Admit and prepare patients for surgery. Provide ongoing information to the patient and his caregiver to assure that they understand all procedures and feel as comfortable as possible.

4. Perform nursing assessment of patient, start IV and ordered medications.

5. Communicate with other health care team members to assure continuity of care.

6. Receive patients in the recovery room after surgery. Assess and evaluate the patient. Continuously monitor the patient during his recovery phase. Document the status of the patient and the care provided.

7. Incorporate a sense of wellness by allowing the patient's family to be reunited with him as soon as feasible and by encouraging self-care by the patient.

8. Provide discharge instructions to the patient and caregiver, asking for confirmation of understanding.

9. Document charges for all supplies used during the pre-op and recovery phase.

10. Perform follow up patient assessment by calling the patient the day after surgery.

11. Remain prepared for emergency situations by knowing correct emergency procedures, locations of emergency call system and location of emergency supplies and equipment.

12. Ensure that Universal Precautions are maintained.

13. Complete all necessary documentation on Recovery Room nurses' record.

14. Assist with ordering drugs and supplies.

15. Wipe down stretchers and recliners between patients with a germicidal solution.