What are the responsibilities and job description for the Registered Nurse - PACU position at Commonwealth Health?
Benefits
As a PACU Nurse at Regional Hospital Surgery Center, you’ll join a team and be a part of a culture that's dedicated to providing top quality care to our patients. Our full-time employees enjoy a robust benefits package which may include health insurance, 401(k), licensure/certification reimbursement, tuition reimbursement, and student loan assistance for eligible roles.
Job Summary
The Registered Nurse (RN) provides patient-centered care through the nursing process of assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. This role is responsible for coordinating and delivering high-quality care based on established clinical protocols and physician/provider orders. The RN collaborates with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure effective patient care and desired outcomes, while maintaining a supportive and compassionate environment for patients and their families.
Essential Functions
As a PACU Nurse at Regional Hospital Surgery Center, you’ll join a team and be a part of a culture that's dedicated to providing top quality care to our patients. Our full-time employees enjoy a robust benefits package which may include health insurance, 401(k), licensure/certification reimbursement, tuition reimbursement, and student loan assistance for eligible roles.
Job Summary
The Registered Nurse (RN) provides patient-centered care through the nursing process of assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. This role is responsible for coordinating and delivering high-quality care based on established clinical protocols and physician/provider orders. The RN collaborates with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure effective patient care and desired outcomes, while maintaining a supportive and compassionate environment for patients and their families.
Essential Functions
- Coordinates and delivers high-quality, patient-centered care in accordance with organizational policies, protocols, and the nursing process.
- Conducts thorough patient assessments and documents findings accurately, reporting changes in condition to the appropriate care team members.
- Utilizes knowledge of human growth and development to provide age-appropriate care and education.
- Administers prescribed medications, monitors for side effects, and documents administration in accordance with standards of practice.
- Assists physicians during procedures within the scope of documented competency and skill level.
- Collaborates with the healthcare team to develop, implement, and evaluate individualized care plans based on patient assessments and needs.
- Responds to medical emergencies and participates in life-saving interventions, such as CPR and code team activities, as appropriate.
- Advocates for the rights and needs of patients, ensuring their voices are heard and respected in care planning and delivery.
- Provides patient and family education on medical conditions, treatment plans, and post-discharge care, ensuring understanding and adherence to instructions.
- Implements and adheres to infection control protocols to prevent the spread of healthcare-associated infections.
- Monitors and operates medical equipment (e.g., IV pumps, monitors, ventilators) as needed for patient care and safety.
- Promotes patient safety by adhering to National Patient Safety Goals and maintaining a clean, safe environment for patients and staff.
- Participates in audits, chart reviews, and compliance checks to ensure adherence to standards of practice and regulatory requirements.
- Demonstrates responsible decision-making in planning, delegating, and providing care based on patient needs and organizational policies.
- Documents patient care and education thoroughly and promptly in the medical record.
- Engages in professional development to maintain clinical competency and understanding of current nursing standards and regulations.
- Participates in performance improvement initiatives, including data collection and process development, to enhance patient outcomes and care delivery.
- PACU RN:
- Assesses the patient's level of consciousness and responsiveness as they wake up from anesthesia.
- Evaluates pain levels and administers pain medications as prescribed.
- Observes any side effects of anesthesia, such as nausea, vomiting, shivering, or muscle aches.
- Monitors for and respond to any post-operative complications.
- Administers medications, including pain relievers and other post-operative medications, as prescribed.
- Regulates intravenous (IV) fluids and monitor fluid balance.
- Checks and changes dressings on surgical wounds.
- Ensures a clear airway and provide oxygen support as needed.
- Educates patients and families about post-surgery care, potential complications, and discharge instructions.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
- Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
- Complies with all policies and standards.
- 0-2 years of experience in a clinical nursing role or student clinical rotations in an acute care setting required
- Strong knowledge of the nursing process and clinical nursing practices.
- Ability to perform thorough patient assessments and communicate findings effectively.
- Proficient in administering medications and monitoring for side effects.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in documenting patient care.
- Knowledge of safety standards, infection control, and quality improvement initiatives.
- RN - Registered Nurse - State Licensure and/or Compact State Licensure required
- BCLS - Basic Life Support required
- ACLS - Advanced Cardiac Life Support preferred
- PALS - Pediatric Advanced Life Support preferred
- NRP - Neonatal Resuscitation preferred
- Refer to facility or unit-specific guidelines for additional requirements