Pre/Post Registered Nurse Full-time Evenings

Community Health Systems•Fort Wayne, IN

19h

About The Position

The Registered Nurse (RN) provides patient-centered care through the nursing process of assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. The RN coordinates and delivers high-quality care based on established clinical protocols and physician/provider orders, collaborating with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to support effective care and desired outcomes in a compassionate environment for patients and families. The Pre/Post/PACU unit has 25 bays, with half used for preoperative care and half for postoperative care. PACU responsibilities include monitoring patients as they recover from anesthesia, managing pain and medications, watching for anesthesia side effects and postoperative complications, maintaining airways and providing oxygen support as needed, managing IV fluids, caring for surgical dressings, and educating patients and families about recovery and discharge instructions.

Requirements

RN—Registered Nurse state licensure and/or compact state licensure required.
BCLS—Basic Life Support required.
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 collaboration with interdisciplinary teams.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in documenting patient care.
Knowledge of safety standards, infection control, and quality improvement initiatives.

Nice To Haves

ACLS—Advanced Cardiac Life Support preferred.
PALS—Pediatric Advanced Life Support preferred.
NRP—Neonatal Resuscitation preferred.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and deliver 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, including CPR and code team activities, as appropriate.
Advocate for patients’ rights and needs and include their voices in care planning and delivery.
Educate patients and families about conditions, treatment plans, post-discharge care, postoperative care, potential complications, and discharge instructions.
Implement infection control protocols and promote patient safety in accordance with National Patient Safety Goals.
Monitor and operate medical equipment, such as IV pumps, monitors, and ventilators, as needed.
Maintain a clean and safe environment for patients and staff.
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 current nursing standards and regulations.
In PACU, assess consciousness and responsiveness during emergence from anesthesia; assess pain and administer prescribed pain medication; monitor anesthesia side effects and postoperative complications; regulate IV fluids and monitor fluid balance; check and change surgical dressings; and maintain a clear airway with oxygen support as needed.