What are the responsibilities and job description for the Registered Nurse (RN) - Charge Nurse - Pre-Op/PACU position at CORYELL COUNTY MEMORIAL HOSPITAL AUTHORITY?
The Pre-Op/PACU RN Charge Nurse provides clinical leadership and direct patient care within the Pre-Operative and Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU). This role is responsible for coordinating daily department operations, ensuring safe, high-quality patient care, supporting staff, and maintaining compliance with hospital policies, accreditation standards, and regulatory requirements. The Charge Nurse serves as a clinical resource and collaborates with surgeons, anesthesia providers, physicians, and interdisciplinary team members to promote positive patient outcomes and efficient workflow.
Responsibilities:
- Coordinates daily patient flow within the Pre-Op and PACU departments to ensure safe, efficient, and timely care.
- Provides direct nursing care to surgical patients before and after procedures according to the nursing process.
- Performs comprehensive patient assessments and develops individualized plans of care.
- Monitors patients recovering from anesthesia, recognizing and responding promptly to changes in condition.
- Administers medications, IV therapy, blood products, and treatments in accordance with physician orders and nursing standards.
- Oversees patient admissions, transfers, and discharges while ensuring accurate documentation.
- Serves as a clinical resource, mentor, and leader for nursing staff and assists with problem-solving during the shift.
- Assigns staff based on patient acuity and department needs.
- Collaborates with surgeons, anesthesia providers, operating room staff, physicians, and ancillary departments to coordinate patient care.
- Assists with emergency situations, including rapid response and code events as appropriate.
- Ensures compliance with infection prevention practices, patient safety initiatives, and regulatory standards.
- Participates in quality improvement initiatives and performance improvement activities.
- Assists with orientation, training, and competency validation of new staff.
- Promotes exceptional patient and family experiences through compassionate communication and education.
- Maintains required certifications and participates in continuing education.