Pre-Op/PACU Registered Nurse

Star Valley Health•Afton, WY

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Star Valley Health is seeking a full-time, benefited Registered Nurse to support Pre-Operative and Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) services. The role is based primarily in Afton, Wyoming, with a secondary location in Alpine, Wyoming. The nurse delivers high-quality care throughout the perioperative process, including pre-operative assessment, intra-operative support as needed, and post-operative recovery. The position works closely with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and multidisciplinary team members to support clinical outcomes and a positive patient experience.

Requirements

Graduate of an accredited School of Nursing.
Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in the State of Wyoming.
Current CPR/BLS certification for Healthcare Providers.
Proficiency with electronic medical record (EMR) systems.
Strong clinical assessment and critical-thinking skills.
Excellent organization and attention to detail.
Effective verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to remain calm and responsive in fast-paced or emergent situations.
Ability to work collaboratively with surgeons, anesthesia, leadership, and peers.
Ability to meet physical demands, including lifting up to 50 lbs and frequent standing, walking, bending, pushing, and pulling.
Adequate visual, auditory, and manual dexterity to perform essential nursing functions.

Nice To Haves

ACLS and PALS certifications; these are preferred and required within a defined timeframe after hire.
Two years of acute care or perioperative nursing experience.
EPIC experience.

Responsibilities

Complete and document comprehensive patient assessments before surgery.
Verify patient identity, surgical procedure, and informed consents.
Initiate IV access and prepare patients for anesthesia and operative care.
Monitor and record vital signs, allergies, medical history, and readiness for surgery.
Educate patients about procedures, expectations, and the care team.
Receive and assess patients following surgery and anesthesia.
Monitor vital signs, airway, sedation levels, pain, and wound sites.
Document assessments and communicate changes in patient condition to providers.
Manage IVs, fluids, transfusions, and specimen collection as needed.
Educate patients and families about medications, discharge instructions, and recovery expectations.
Determine readiness for transfer or discharge according to established criteria.
Respond effectively to post-operative emergencies.
Maintain a clean, safe, and organized PACU environment.