RN PREOP PACU PAT

Legent Health•Fredericksburg, TX

About The Position

The PAT/PreOp/PACU RN handles inbound pre-operative patients, provides pre-operative screening for surgical procedures, and delivers post-anesthetic care to patients recovering from anesthesia. The nurse helps guide patients as they regain consciousness, assists with their immediate personal needs, and administers medications. The role includes pre-admission testing, preoperative preparation, and postoperative assessment and care.

Requirements

Graduate of an accredited nursing program.
Current and active CPR certification.
Current and valid nursing license in good standing with the State licensing board.
Cognitive skills related to the position.

Nice To Haves

2–3 years’ experience in critical care nursing.

Responsibilities

Perform pre-admission intake, initial physical assessments, and patient interviews to obtain medical histories by phone before the day of surgery.
Perform tests ordered by the surgeon, such as EKGs, and draw blood for laboratory work as needed.
Explain the surgical process, answer patient questions, and discuss post-surgical care plans.
Manage patient admissions to the preoperative department.
Assess patients’ health status and verify the accuracy of identification wristbands.
Ensure operative and informed consents are in order and confirm the surgeon and procedure.
Take and record patients’ vital statistics to assess readiness for surgery.
Initiate IVs and inform patients about procedures and attending medical staff.
Assess patients after surgery and ensure vital signs are within normal ranges.
Document findings in patient files, including sedation levels and body temperature.
Answer patient questions, promote comfort, and check relevant IVs.
Develop individualized care plans and carry out nursing activities according to those plans.
Monitor for changes in patient condition and report changes to the doctor.
Educate patients and families about procedures and medications.
Determine when patients are ready to be moved to their rooms.
Provide interventions during postoperative emergencies.
Manage blood and fluid transfusions and draw specimens.
Keep postoperative spaces clean and sanitized.
Change bandages and dress surgical wounds.