Charge Nurse (PACU)

Charge Nurse (PACU) – Registered Nurse

Location: Chicago, IL

Employment Type: Full-Time | Day Shift

Pay Range: (based on experience and certification)

About the Role:

We are seeking an experienced and compassionate Charge Nurse (PACU) to join our perioperative team. The Charge Nurse oversees patient recovery following surgical or procedural anesthesia, ensuring quality care, safety, and comfort. This role combines strong clinical skills with leadership responsibility, coordinating nursing staff, monitoring post-anesthesia patients, and ensuring the highest standards of care delivery.

Key Responsibilities:

• Supervise and coordinate nursing care in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU).
• Assess, monitor, and evaluate patients recovering from anesthesia.
• Develop and implement individualized care plans based on patient assessment.
• Provide direct patient care as needed, including medication administration and airway management.
• Ensure timely communication and collaboration among healthcare professionals.
• Promote and enforce infection control, safety, and quality standards.
• Serve as a mentor and clinical resource to nursing staff.
• Manage patient flow and ensure efficient transitions between surgical, PACU, and inpatient units.
• Document all patient interactions accurately in the electronic medical record system.
• Participate in unit meetings, quality improvement activities, and staff development initiatives.

Qualifications:

• Graduate of an accredited nursing program (required).
• Active Registered Nurse (RN) license in the State of Illinois (required).
• Current CPR and ACLS certification (required).
• BLS for Healthcare Providers (AHA-certified).
• Minimum 2 years of nursing experience, preferably in PACU, OR, or critical care.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to handle emergencies and prioritize patient needs in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred / Nice-to-Have:

• PALS or NRP certification (preferred).
• Charge Nurse or supervisory experience.
• Experience in electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) or similar specialty care.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive pay: (based on experience).
• 401(k) with 4% company match.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Life and disability insurance.
• Paid time off and paid sick leave.
• Continuing education and advancement opportunities.

Schedule:

• Full-Time | Day Shift (7:00 AM – 3:30 PM)
• May include occasional weekends or on-call rotation based on department needs.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Application Question(s):

• What are your salary expectations (hourly or annual base) for this position?
• What are your preferred hours or best time for a phone call?
• What is your work authorization/ Work Permit / Visa Status in the USA?
• Please share your regular email and regular phone number.
• Are you based nearby Chicago, Illinois; or are you willing to relocate to Chicago, Illinois for this position? Please share your location. (City, State & Zip code)
• Do you have an active RN license in Illinois?
• How many years of PACU or critical care experience do you have?
• Do you hold valid CPR and ACLS certifications?
• Are you available to work full-time during the day shift?

Work Location: On the road