Registered Nurse PACU FT

Community Health Systems•Statesboro, GA

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 based on established clinical protocols and 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. This position is in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU). The PACU RN assesses patients’ consciousness and responsiveness as they wake from anesthesia; evaluates and treats pain; observes for anesthesia side effects and postoperative complications; administers prescribed medications; regulates IV fluids; checks and changes surgical dressings; maintains a clear airway and provides oxygen support as needed; and educates patients and families about postsurgical care, possible complications, and discharge instructions. The RN also performs other duties as assigned and is expected to maintain regular and reliable attendance and comply with applicable policies and standards.

Requirements

0–2 years of experience in a clinical nursing role or student clinical rotations in an acute care setting 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.
RN (Registered Nurse) state licensure and/or compact state licensure required.
BCLS (Basic Life Support) required.
Refer to facility- or unit-specific guidelines for additional requirements.

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, accurately document findings, 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 with 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 in care planning and delivery.
Educate patients and families about conditions, treatment plans, postsurgical care, potential complications, and discharge instructions.
Follow infection-control protocols and promote a clean and safe environment in accordance with National Patient Safety Goals.
Operate and monitor medical equipment as needed for patient care and safety.
Participate in audits, chart reviews, compliance checks, performance improvement initiatives, and professional development.
Make responsible decisions when planning and delegating care based on patient needs and organizational policies.
In the PACU, assess patients’ level of consciousness and responsiveness as they emerge from anesthesia.
Evaluate pain and administer prescribed pain medication and other postoperative medications; observe for anesthesia side effects and postoperative complications.
Regulate IV fluids and monitor fluid balance; check and change surgical wound dressings.
Maintain a clear airway and provide oxygen support as needed.
Maintain regular and reliable attendance, comply with policies and standards, and perform other duties as assigned.