RN PACU Full-time Days

Community Health Systems Professional Services Corporation•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 according to 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. This PACU role is for an RN with PACU or critical care experience. The unit has 16 bays plus one isolation room, and the recovery room is open 24 hours. The RN assesses patients recovering from anesthesia, monitors for complications and side effects, manages pain and medications, supports airways and oxygen needs, regulates IV fluids, checks and changes surgical dressings, and educates patients and families about post-surgery care and discharge instructions. Call is required once a month.

Requirements

RN with PACU or critical care experience.
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 to collaborate 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 high-quality, patient-centered care in accordance with organizational policies, protocols, and the nursing process.
Conduct thorough 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 according to standards of practice.
Assist physicians during procedures within documented competency and skill level.
Collaborate with the healthcare team to develop, implement, and evaluate individualized care plans based on patient assessments and needs.
Respond to medical emergencies and participate in life-saving interventions such as 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 and follow infection control protocols.
Monitor and operate medical equipment, such as IV pumps, monitors, and ventilators, 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 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 understanding of current nursing standards and regulations.
Participate in performance improvement initiatives, including data collection and process development.
Assess patients’ consciousness and responsiveness as they awaken from anesthesia.
Evaluate pain and administer prescribed pain medications.
Observe for anesthesia side effects, including nausea, vomiting, shivering, and 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.