PAT/PreOp/PACU RN

Duties

Pre-Admission Testing (PAT) Nurse

• Conducts pre-surgical assessments and interviews patients to gather medical history, medications, and allergies.
• Orders and oversees pre-operative tests (e.g., lab work, EKGs, x-rays).
• Educates patients about their upcoming procedures and answers questions.
• Maintains accurate patient records and documentation.

Scheduling:

• Schedule surgical procedures, considering factors like desired date, surgery priority, and length.
• Ensure efficient use of surgery suites and staff.
• Schedule pre- and post-operative appointments, diagnostic tests, and referrals as needed.
• Coordinate with physicians' offices and other related departments.
• Patient Communication and Coordination:
• Communicate with patients and their families regarding scheduling, pre-operative instructions, and post-operative care.
• Provide accurate information about facility location, date, and time of surgery.
• Answer patient inquiries and address any concerns. Administrative Tasks:
• Maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Prepare and collate surgical paperwork.
• Monitor cancellations and reschedule appointments.
• May be responsible for ordering equipment and supplies.
• May be required to verify room and equipment availability.
• Accurate and concise record of surgical logs
• Surgical patient call backs

Skills:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Computer proficiency, especially with electronic medical records.
• Knowledge of medical terminology.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Self sufficient
• Time management

Pre Operative Nurse

Patient Assessment and Preparation:

• Conducts thorough physical and psychological assessments to identify potential risks and ensure the patient is ready for surgery.
• Reviews medical history, medications, and allergies.
• Explains the surgical procedure, what to expect before, during, and after, and addresses patient questions and concerns.
• Prepares patients for surgery by ensuring they are dressed in surgical attire, have removed jewelry, piercings, or contact lenses, and have followed any pre-operative instructions (e.g., fasting).
• Assists with starting IVs and administering pre-operative medications as ordered.

Patient Education and Support:

• Provides clear and concise information to patients and their families about the surgical process.
• Offers emotional support and reassurance to help alleviate anxiety and fear.
• Ensures patients understand their rights and have the opportunity to ask questions.

Documentation and Communication:

• Maintains accurate and detailed records of patient assessments, interventions, and any concerns.
• Communicates effectively with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare team members to ensure a smooth and safe patient experience.
• Ensures all pre-operative paperwork is complete and organized for the surgical team.

Coordination and Organization:

• Coordinates with other healthcare professionals to ensure all necessary pre-operative preparations are in place.
• Assists with patient admission, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
• May be involved in arranging necessary diagnostic tests, such as blood work, imaging studies, or EKGs.

Other Duties:

• May assist with preparing the surgical area and ensuring that all necessary equipment and supplies are available.
• May be responsible for making pre-op phone calls to patients to review health history and provide instructions.
• May assist with post-operative care and stabilization.

Pacu Nurse

Patient Care and Monitoring:

• Initial Assessment: Upon receiving a patient from the operating room, PACU nurses conduct a thorough assessment, including vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, oxygen saturation, temperature), level of consciousness, and pain levels.
• Ongoing Monitoring: They continuously monitor the patient's condition, looking for signs of complications related to anesthesia or surgery, and intervene as needed.
• Pain and Nausea Management: PACU nurses administer pain medication and anti-nausea medications as prescribed, ensuring patient comfort and managing post-operative symptoms.
• Fluid and Electrolyte Management: They monitor fluid intake and output, and manage electrolyte imbalances as needed.
• Wound Care: PACU nurses ensure surgical dressings are clean, dry, and intact, and they assess for signs of infection.
• Emotional Support: They provide emotional support and reassurance to patients and their families, answering questions and addressing concerns.

Communication and Collaboration:

• Handoff Communication: PACU nurses receive a handoff report from the anesthesia provider and surgeon, ensuring continuity of care.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: They collaborate with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to optimize patient care.
• Documentation: PACU nurses meticulously document patient assessments, interventions, and responses to treatment in the medical record.
• Patient Education: They educate patients and their families about post-operative care, medications, and discharge instructions.

Other Responsibilities:

• Equipment Management: PACU nurses ensure that the PACU is well-stocked with necessary equipment and supplies.
• Safety: They maintain a safe and clean environment in the PACU, implementing infection control measures.
• Emergency Response: PACU nurses are prepared to respond to emergency situations, such as airway obstruction or cardiac arrest.
• Patient Discharge: They ensure that patients meet the criteria for discharge from the PACU and coordinate with other healthcare professionals for transfer to other units.

Qualifications

• RN License in Texas or compact
• Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing (preferred)
• Active BLS, ACLS, PALS & NRP
• Minimum 1 year of experience in an operating room setting

Benefits:

• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person