Pacu RN

Community Health Systems•Knoxville, TN

About The Position

The Registered Nurse (RN) provides patient-centered care through assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. The RN coordinates and delivers high-quality care in accordance with clinical protocols and provider orders, collaborating with healthcare professionals to support effective care and desired outcomes. The role also maintains a supportive and compassionate environment for patients and families. For PACU assignments, the RN assesses patients’ consciousness and responsiveness as they emerge from anesthesia, evaluates and treats pain, observes for anesthesia side effects, and monitors for postoperative complications. The RN administers prescribed medications, regulates IV fluids and monitors fluid balance, checks and changes surgical dressings, maintains a clear airway, and provides oxygen support as needed. The RN also educates patients and families about postsurgical care, possible complications, and discharge instructions. The position includes other duties as assigned and requires regular, reliable attendance and compliance with applicable policies and standards. Facility- or unit-specific guidelines may establish additional requirements.

Requirements

0–2 years of experience in a clinical nursing role or student clinical rotations in an acute care setting.
Strong knowledge of the nursing process and clinical nursing practices.
Ability to perform thorough patient assessments and communicate findings effectively.
Proficiency in administering medications and monitoring for side effects.
Effective communication and interpersonal skills for collaborating with interdisciplinary teams.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in documenting patient care.
Knowledge of safety standards, infection control, and quality-improvement initiatives.
Required: RN – Registered Nurse state licensure and/or compact state licensure.
Required: BCLS – Basic Life Support.

Nice To Haves

Preferred: ACLS – Advanced Cardiac Life Support.
Preferred: PALS – Pediatric Advanced Life Support.
Preferred: NRP – Neonatal Resuscitation.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and deliver high-quality, patient-centered care in accordance with organizational policies, protocols, and the nursing process.
Conduct patient assessments, document findings accurately, and report changes in condition to appropriate care team members.
Provide age-appropriate care and education using knowledge of human growth and development.
Administer prescribed medications, monitor for side effects, and document administration.
Assist physicians during procedures within documented competency and skill level.
Collaborate with the healthcare team to develop, implement, and evaluate individualized care plans.
Respond to medical emergencies and participate in life-saving interventions, such as CPR and code team activities, as appropriate.
Advocate for patients’ rights and needs and support their participation in care planning and delivery.
Educate patients and families about medical conditions, treatment plans, and post-discharge care.
Follow infection-control protocols and promote patient safety, including adherence to National Patient Safety Goals.
Monitor and operate medical equipment as needed for patient care and safety.
Participate in audits, chart reviews, compliance checks, and performance-improvement initiatives.
Make responsible decisions when planning, delegating, and providing care based on patient needs and organizational policies.
Document patient care and education thoroughly and promptly in the medical record.
Engage in professional development to maintain clinical competency and knowledge of nursing standards and regulations.
In the PACU, assess patients’ consciousness and responsiveness as they wake from anesthesia; evaluate pain and administer prescribed pain medication; observe for anesthesia side effects and postoperative complications; administer other prescribed postoperative medications; regulate IV fluids and monitor fluid balance; check and change surgical dressings; maintain a clear airway and provide oxygen support as needed; and educate patients and families about postsurgical care, potential complications, and discharge instructions.
Perform other duties as assigned and maintain regular, reliable attendance.
Comply with applicable policies and standards.