Pre-Op/PACU Registered Nurse

Star Valley Health•Afton, WY

About The Position

Registered Nurse – Pre-Op/PACU (Full-Time, Fully Benefitted) Primary Location: Afton, WY | Secondary Location: Alpine, WY Star Valley Health Join a compassionate, high-performing surgical care team where your skills make a meaningful impact every day. Star Valley Health is deeply committed to patient-centered care, clinical excellence, and supporting our caregivers with strong teamwork, professional growth opportunities, and a positive work environment. We are seeking a skilled Registered Nurse (RN) to support our Pre-Operative and Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) services. This full-time, benefitted role plays a key part in ensuring safe, smooth, and exceptional surgical experiences for our patients. Summary The Pre-Op/PACU RN is responsible for the delivery of high-quality patient care throughout the perioperative process—including pre-operative assessment, intra-operative support as needed, and post-operative recovery. This role collaborates closely with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and multidisciplinary team members to support optimal clinical outcomes and an excellent patient experience.

Requirements

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.
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with surgeons, anesthesia, leadership, and peers.
Proficient with modern clinical equipment and EMR systems.
Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including lifting up to 50 lbs, frequent standing, walking, bending, pushing, and pulling.
Adequate visual, auditory, and manual dexterity required to perform essential nursing functions.
Graduate of an accredited School of Nursing (required).
Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in the State of Wyoming (required).
Current CPR/BLS for Healthcare Providers (required).
ACLS and PALS certifications (preferred; required within a defined timeframe after hire).
Two years of acute care or perioperative nursing experience (preferred).
EMR proficiency (required) EPIC preferred.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

Complete and document comprehensive patient assessments prior to 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.
Provide clear patient education regarding the procedure, expectations, and care team.
Receive and assess patients following surgery and anesthesia.
Monitor vital signs, airway, sedation levels, pain, and wound sites.
Document assessments and communicate condition changes to providers.
Manage IVs, fluids, transfusions, and specimen collection as needed.
Provide patient and family education regarding medications, discharge instructions, and recovery expectations.
Determine patient readiness for transfer or discharge based on established criteria.
Respond effectively to post-operative emergencies.
Maintain a clean, safe, and organized PACU environment.