Nurse Sedation

Vista Dental Specialists•Aberdeen, NC

About The Position

The Registered Nurse (RN) provides safe, high-quality patient care before, during, and after oral surgical procedures involving IV sedation. The RN works closely with the oral surgeon and clinical team to maintain patient safety, monitor patients throughout sedation and recovery, and support a positive patient experience. The role requires sound clinical judgment, attention to detail, effective communication, and a prompt response to changes in a patient's condition. The position includes preoperative assessment and preparation; assistance with IV sedation and oral surgery; continuous monitoring and documentation; postoperative recovery and discharge support; and maintenance of clinical supplies and emergency equipment. Nursing duties must remain within the RN's authorized scope of practice, applicable laws and regulations, provider orders, credentialing requirements, and office protocols, including requirements governing dental anesthesia and provider delegation. The role operates in an outpatient dental and oral surgery setting where IV sedation and surgical procedures are performed. It requires prolonged standing, close patient observation, and the ability to respond promptly to clinical emergencies.

Requirements

Current, unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of practice.
Current BLS certification.
Knowledge of patient monitoring, medication safety, airway management, and emergency response.
Strong organizational, communication, documentation, and critical-thinking skills.
Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced dental or surgical setting.
Ability to recognize changes in a patient's condition and respond appropriately.
Must perform nursing duties within authorized scope of practice, applicable state and federal laws, provider orders, credentialing requirements, and established office protocols.

Nice To Haves

ACLS certification when required by applicable regulations, credentialing, or office protocols.
Experience in IV sedation, perioperative nursing, ambulatory surgery, recovery, or oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Responsibilities

Review patient medical histories, medications, allergies, and other relevant health information before procedures.
Assess and document baseline vital signs and required preoperative information; verify medical clearances, assessments, consent documentation, and compliance with provider-directed preoperative instructions, including fasting requirements.
Establish IV access and prepare monitoring equipment, supplies, and the treatment area for sedation and surgery.
Assist the oral surgeon with IV sedation and oral surgical procedures within the RN's scope of practice, applicable regulations, and office protocols.
Monitor and document vital signs, oxygen saturation, cardiac rhythm when indicated, respiratory status, and level of consciousness as required.
Continuously observe patients and promptly communicate changes in clinical status to the treating provider.
Assist with airway management, emergency response, and resuscitation within the nurse's training and authorized responsibilities.
Ensure emergency equipment, oxygen delivery systems, suction, and required emergency medications are available and ready for use.
Document patient assessments, medications administered, monitoring, and patient responses accurately and promptly in accordance with orders and office policies.
Follow infection-prevention, aseptic-technique, and medication-safety procedures.
Monitor patients during recovery until established discharge criteria are met; assess vital signs, consciousness, pain, nausea, bleeding, and potential complications.
Recognize and promptly respond to adverse reactions or complications associated with sedation and surgery.
Provide postoperative instructions to patients and caregivers in coordination with the surgeon and clinical team.
Verify discharge requirements and, when required, that the patient leaves with a responsible adult; document recovery assessments, patient status, and discharge readiness.
Collaborate with the oral surgeon, dental assistants, treatment coordinators, and practice manager to support daily operations.
Maintain adequate clinical supplies, inspect and help maintain emergency equipment and medication supplies, and keep the clinical environment clean, organized, and safe.
Maintain accurate patient records and protect confidential health information in accordance with HIPAA.
Participate in staff meetings, training, emergency preparedness exercises, and continuing education.
Follow infection-control standards, OSHA requirements, state nursing regulations, and office policies.
Perform other patient-care and clinical-operations duties as assigned within the nurse's scope of practice.