RN PACU Full-time Days

Community Health Systems•Fort Wayne, IN

About The Position

The Registered Nurse (RN) provides patient-centered care through the nursing process of assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. The role coordinates and delivers high-quality care according to 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 full-time, day-shift position is in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU), which has 16 bays and one isolation room and is open 24 hours. PACU nurses assess patients recovering from anesthesia, monitor their recovery and for post-operative complications, provide prescribed medications and oxygen support, manage IV fluids, care for surgical dressings, and educate patients and families about post-surgery care and discharge instructions. The position requires PACU or critical care experience and includes call once a month.

Requirements

PACU or critical care experience.
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.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and deliver high-quality, patient-centered care in accordance with organizational policies, protocols, and the nursing process.
Conduct thorough patient assessments, document findings accurately, 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.
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 and ensure their voices are respected 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, including IV pumps, monitors, and ventilators, as needed.
Promote patient safety by following National Patient Safety Goals and maintaining a clean, safe environment.
Participate in audits, chart reviews, and compliance checks.
Use responsible decision-making when planning, delegating, and providing care.
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 as they recover from anesthesia.
Evaluate pain and administer prescribed pain medication.
Observe for anesthesia side effects, including nausea, vomiting, shivering, and muscle aches.
Monitor for and respond to post-operative complications.
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.