RN PACU FT Days

LCMC Health•New Orleans, LA

About The Position

The Recovery Room Nurse is a vital member of the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU), caring for patients recovering from radiology, cath lab, special procedures, or surgery. The nurse closely monitors patients while they recover from anesthesia, including their breathing, pain, vital signs, surgical site, and oxygen levels, and responds promptly to changes until patients are stable enough to transfer to a hospital room or be discharged home. The role includes coordinating post-operative care, documenting and assessing patient status, monitoring for complications and signs of infection, providing emergency interventions when needed, and educating patients and families about recovery and home care. The nurse collaborates with the surgery team to meet patient care needs and supports safe, continuous, efficient, and compassionate care.

Requirements

Current nursing license to practice in Louisiana, as defined by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing.
Current American Heart Association BLS certification.
Current ACLS certification.
Current PALS certification.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
One year of experience in a related clinical area.
Certified Critical Care Nurse or Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse.

Responsibilities

Organize, prioritize, and coordinate post-operative patient care, including checking lines, tubes, or drains, managing pain, and positioning patients.
Educate and prepare patients and families for home care after discharge.
Complete required clinical documentation and post-operative assessments.
Monitor patients after surgery for pain or complications and monitor surgical sites for healing or infection, following Joint Commission infection control and environment of care requirements.
Monitor for and intervene in postoperative complications.
Perform CPR or other emergency measures when required.
Collaborate with the surgery team to identify and meet overall patient care needs, and communicate when assignments or tasks cannot be completed promptly, effectively, or safely.
Maintain and advocate for a safe environment.
Ensure continuity of care, efficient throughput, consistent communication, and an exceptional patient experience.
Initiate patient and family education about the operation and post-operative care as required.