PACU Days FT

Community Health Systems•Fort Wayne, IN

About The Position

The Registered Nurse (RN) provides patient-centered care through assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. The role 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 RN performs pre-, post-, and peri-anesthesia care functions, including assessing patients’ consciousness and responsiveness as they emerge from anesthesia; evaluating and treating pain; monitoring for anesthesia side effects and post-operative complications; managing medications and IV fluids; changing surgical dressings; maintaining airways and providing oxygen support as needed; and educating patients and families about recovery, potential complications, and discharge instructions. The RN also performs other assigned duties, maintains reliable attendance, and complies with policies and standards.

Requirements

0–2 years of experience in a clinical nursing role or student clinical rotations in an acute care setting required.
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, accurately document findings, and report changes in condition to appropriate care team members.
Use knowledge of human growth and development to provide age-appropriate care and education.
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 in care planning and delivery.
Educate patients and families about medical conditions, treatment plans, and post-discharge care.
Implement infection control protocols to prevent healthcare-associated infections.
Monitor and operate medical equipment as needed for patient care and safety.
Promote patient safety by following National Patient Safety Goals and maintaining a clean, safe environment.
Participate in audits, chart reviews, and compliance checks.
Make responsible decisions in 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.
Participate in performance improvement initiatives, including data collection and process development.
Assess patients’ consciousness and responsiveness as they wake from anesthesia.
Evaluate pain and administer prescribed pain medication.
Observe for anesthesia side effects, including nausea, vomiting, shivering, or muscle aches.
Monitor for and respond to post-operative complications.
Administer prescribed post-operative medications.
Regulate IV fluids and monitor fluid balance.
Check and change surgical wound dressings.
Maintain a clear airway and provide oxygen support as needed.
Educate patients and families about post-surgery care, potential complications, and discharge instructions.
Perform other duties as assigned; maintain regular and reliable attendance; and comply with policies and standards.