PACU Days FT

Community Health Systems•Fort Wayne, IN

20h

About The Position

The Registered Nurse (RN) provides patient-centered care using the nursing process of assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. The RN coordinates and delivers high-quality care based on 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. In the PACU, the RN assesses patients’ consciousness and responsiveness as they recover from anesthesia; evaluates and treats pain; monitors for anesthesia side effects and postoperative complications; administers prescribed medications; manages IV fluids and fluid balance; checks and changes surgical dressings; maintains a clear airway and provides oxygen as needed; and educates patients and families on postoperative care, possible complications, and discharge instructions. The RN also performs other assigned duties, maintains regular and reliable attendance, and complies 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.
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.

Nice To Haves

ACLS — Advanced Cardiac Life Support preferred.
PALS — Pediatric Advanced Life Support preferred.
NRP — Neonatal Resuscitation preferred.
Refer to facility or unit-specific guidelines for additional requirements.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and deliver high-quality, 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 medical conditions, treatment plans, and post-discharge care.
Follow 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 about 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.
In the PACU, assess patients’ consciousness and responsiveness during recovery from anesthesia.
Evaluate pain and administer prescribed pain medication; observe and respond to anesthesia side effects and postoperative complications.
Administer prescribed postoperative medications and regulate IV fluids while monitoring fluid balance.
Check and change surgical wound dressings.
Maintain a clear airway and provide oxygen support as needed.
Educate patients and families about postsurgical care, potential complications, and discharge instructions.
Maintain regular and reliable attendance, comply with policies and standards, and perform other duties as assigned.