RN- Preop/PACU

South County Health•South Kingstown, RI

1d•$35 - $49

About The Position

The RN - Preop/PACU is responsible for coordinating total nursing care for patients undergoing surgical or procedural interventions. This includes comprehensive care in both the Preoperative and Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) settings. The role emphasizes a multi-disciplinary, patient-centered approach and requires the ability to respond rapidly and appropriately in high-acuity situations. Care is delivered across the patient lifespan using the Nursing Process: assessment, planning, intervention, implementation, and evaluation. The RN must be capable of working independently—managing patient care alone at times—while having immediate access to nearby colleagues and resources if support is needed.

Requirements

Current RN license in the State of Rhode Island
BLS and ACLS certifications (American Heart Association)
Minimum of 1 year acute care nursing experience
Critical care experience

Nice To Haves

PACU experience
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN); Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) graduates must be enrolled in a BSN program and complete it within 3 years

Responsibilities

Coordinate and deliver total nursing care for patients in both Preop and PACU.
Provide continuous monitoring of patient condition post-anesthesia, including vital signs, oxygenation, cardiac rhythm, pain, and neurologic status.
Administer and titrate IV medications, including analgesics, antiemetics, sedatives, and emergency drugs per provider orders.
Respond promptly and effectively to emergencies such as respiratory distress, hypotension, arrhythmias, or other clinical changes.
Provide patient and family education related to surgical preparation and recovery.
Collaborate closely with anesthesia providers, surgeons, and other team members to ensure safe and efficient patient flow.
Deliver care throughout the patient lifespan, applying age-appropriate considerations.
Document all assessments, interventions, and patient responses accurately in the electronic health record.
Participate in and support quality improvement and patient safety initiatives.