Pre-Admission Testing Nurse

VA Ear Nose Throat Associates•Richmond, VA

About The Position

The Pre-Admission Testing (PAT) Nurse is responsible for coordinating and completing comprehensive preoperative assessments for patients scheduled for surgical procedures in the ambulatory surgery center. This role ensures patients are medically optimized, appropriately selected for ambulatory surgery, and fully prepared for their procedures while maintaining compliance with AAAHC accreditation standards, CMS Conditions for Coverage, state regulations, and center policies.

Requirements

Current, unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license
Graduate of an accredited nursing program
Minimum of two (2) years of clinical nursing experience (perioperative, PACU, ICU, or medical-surgical experience preferred)
Strong clinical assessment, critical-thinking, and organizational skills
Exceptional attention to detail is required
Proficiency with electronic medical records and basic computer applications
Excellent communication and patient education skills
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with a multidisciplinary team
Working knowledge of AAAHC accreditation standards or willingness to learn and maintain compliance

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in Pre-Admission Testing, Perioperative Nursing, or Ambulatory Surgery
Familiarity with anesthesia guidelines and preoperative risk stratification
BLS certification (ACLS preferred, if applicable)

Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive pre-admission assessments via phone, telehealth, or in-person visits
Review patient medical histories, medications, allergies, and prior surgical and anesthesia experiences
Assess patient appropriateness for ambulatory surgery and identify potential anesthesia or surgical risks
Communicate identified risks or concerns to anesthesia providers, surgeons, and leadership as appropriate
Verify completion and accuracy of required preoperative testing, lab results, EKGs, imaging, and medical clearances
Collaborate with surgeons’ offices, anesthesia providers, and primary care practices to obtain required documentation
Ensure preoperative documentation is complete, accurate, timely, and survey-ready within the electronic medical record (EMR)
Provide clear and thorough patient education, including medication management, fasting guidelines, infection prevention, and day-of-surgery expectations
Reinforce patient rights, informed consent processes, and confidentiality in accordance with AAAHC standards
Identify and escalate concerns that may require case postponement, additional medical evaluation, or anesthesia review
Adhere to and support center policies related to infection control, patient safety, and risk management
Participate in Performance Improvement (PI) and Quality Assurance (QA) activities related to preoperative care
Support AAAHC surveys by maintaining accurate documentation, participating in audits, and demonstrating adherence to established processes
Maintain patient confidentiality and uphold HIPAA standards at all times