RN Preop Inpatient Holding

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. The position includes PACU nursing responsibilities: assessing patients as they awaken from anesthesia; evaluating and treating pain; observing for anesthesia side effects and postoperative complications; administering prescribed medications; regulating IV fluids and monitoring fluid balance; checking and changing surgical dressings; maintaining a clear airway and providing oxygen support as needed; and educating patients and families about postoperative care, potential complications, and discharge instructions. The RN also performs other duties as assigned, 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 required.
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 according to organizational policies, protocols, and the nursing process.
Conduct 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, including CPR and code team activities, as appropriate.
Advocate for patients’ rights and needs and support their participation in care planning and delivery.
Educate patients and families about medical conditions, treatment plans, and post-discharge care, confirming understanding of instructions.
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 to support adherence to practice standards and regulatory requirements.
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.
Assess patients’ consciousness and responsiveness as they awaken from anesthesia.
Evaluate pain and administer prescribed pain medication; observe for anesthesia side effects and postoperative complications.
Regulate IV fluids and monitor fluid balance.
Check and change surgical wound dressings.
Maintain a clear airway and provide oxygen support as needed.
Provide patients and families with postoperative care, potential complication, and discharge education.
Perform other duties as assigned; maintain regular and reliable attendance; comply with all policies and standards.