RN Phase 2 Recovery Discharge

Community Health Systems Professional Services Corporation•Mountain Brook, AL

About The Position

The Registered Nurse (RN) provides patient-centered care through the nursing process of assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. The RN coordinates and delivers high-quality care based on 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. In the PACU Phase 2 setting, the RN assesses patients as they emerge from anesthesia, monitors pain and post-operative recovery, administers prescribed medications, manages IV fluids, checks surgical dressings, supports airway and oxygen needs, and watches for complications or side effects. The RN also educates patients and families about post-surgical care and discharge instructions.

Requirements

0–2 years of experience in a clinical nursing role or student clinical rotations in an acute care setting.
RN (Registered Nurse) state licensure and/or compact state licensure.
Basic Life Support (BCLS).
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.

Nice To Haves

Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS).
Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS).
Neonatal Resuscitation (NRP).

Responsibilities

Coordinate and deliver 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.
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, 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 in planning, delegating, and providing care.
Document patient care and education promptly and thoroughly 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.
Assess patients' consciousness and responsiveness as they wake from anesthesia.
Evaluate pain levels 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.