Clinical Nurse, Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU)

Location: Salem Hospital, 890 Oak Street SE, Salem, OR 97301
Department: Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU)
Position Type: Part Time, 24 hours/week, Non-Exempt
Schedule: 7:00 pm – 7:00 am, two 12-hour shifts, variable scheduled days

Your role with us

As a clinical nurse in Salem Health’s Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU), you’ll be part of a highly skilled team providing immediate post-anesthesia, post-surgical, and post-procedural care for patients of all ages. Our PACU supports a wide range of procedures, from routine outpatient surgeries to complex craniotomies and vascular cases, requiring nurses with strong critical care skills, rapid clinical judgment, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. In this fast-paced environment, you’ll partner with anesthesia providers, surgeons, and interdisciplinary teams to deliver exceptional, safe, and compassionate care during one of the most critical phases of the patient’s surgical experience.

What you'll do

• Perform thorough, age-appropriate assessments and closely monitor patients emerging from anesthesia, responding quickly to changes in condition.
• Provide expert interventions based on individualized patient care plans, prioritizing safety and prevention of adverse outcomes.
• Collaborate with anesthesia physicians, surgeons, and other healthcare professionals to ensure seamless transitions of care.
• Initiate, update, and document comprehensive plans of care, including patient and family education tailored to readiness and understanding.
• Act as a clinical leader on shift, mentoring team members, coordinating assignments, and ensuring adherence to evidence-based practice.
• Uphold a safe, organized, and efficient environment by following infection control, equipment safety, and emergency protocols.
• Manage resources effectively, including cross-coverage and maintaining supply readiness to support uninterrupted patient care.
• Provide compassionate support to patients and families during vulnerable moments, creating a reassuring and professional experience.

Required qualifications

• Bachelor of Science (BSN) or Bachelor of Arts degree in nursing, or non-nursing bachelor's degree with a Master of Science in nursing (MSN). Candidates with an associate's degree in nursing (ADN) and graduates of a diploma RN program are also encouraged to apply; ADN applicants with less than five years of acute care experience will be required to sign an agreement committing to complete their BSN or MSN degree within three years of hire.
• Basic Life Support (BLS).
• Current unencumbered licensure to practice nursing as a Registered Nurse in the State of Oregon.
• Minimum of one year of RN staff nurse experience.

Why Salem Health?

Salem Health is a Top Workplace in Oregon, known for fostering a supportive culture where your contributions truly matter. As an award-winning, independent health care system, we serve our region through Salem Hospital, multiple community clinics and West Valley Hospital, ensuring broad access to high-quality care.

We believe in empowering our teams. Through Lean principles, staff help drive innovation and solve real problems. We also invest in your growth with professional development, tuition assistance, and clear career pathways. At Salem Health, you’ll find more than a job, you’ll find purpose, connection, and room to thrive.

Salem Health Hospitals and Clinics is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other status or condition protected by law.

Salem Health Hospitals and Clinics is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for applicants. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact my.recruiter@salemhealth.org.