Registered Nurse / Pre-Op / PACU / PRN

Qualifications

• Current unencumbered licensure as a registered nurse in the State of Texas
• Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification required at time of hire

Education and experience

• Diploma from an accredited school of nursing; ADN required, BSN preferred
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a preop/PACU, critical care, and/or emergency department setting preferred
• Familiarity with electronic medical records (EMR) systems preferred

Occupational expoure

• Category I exposure to blood borne pathogens, frequent exposure to chemical hazards and may encounter radiation hazards.

Responsibilites

• Exhibits strong clinical assessment and critical thinking skills
• Utilizes excellent communication and interpersonal skills with patients, families, co-workers, and physicians.
• Functions efficiently in a team-oriented environment.
• Conducts thorough preoperative assessments and verifies all necessary documentation, labs, and consents
• Provides patient education regarding surgical procedures and post-operative expectations
• Initiates IV access, administers medications, and prepares patients for surgery
• Monitors patients in the post-anesthesia care unit, assessing airway, vital signs, pain, and surgical sites
• Administers medications and interventions as ordered to manage pain, nausea, or complications
• Documents all care and assessments accurately in the EMR system
• Communicates effectively with surgical teams and family members regarding patient status
• Ensures safe discharge of patients following recovery criteria or prepares for inpatient transfer as needed
• Maintains cleanliness and readiness of the Pre-op and PACU areas
• Participates in ongoing education, staff meetings, and quality improvement initiatives
• Adheres to all infection control and safety protocols

Physical demands

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching
• Must be able to lift and move patients or equipment up to 25 lbs
• Ability to respond quickly to emergency situations
• Requires visual and auditory acuity to assess patients and respond to alarms

Work environment

• Fast-paced, patient-centered surgical and recovery environment
• May involve variable shifts, including early morning or evening hours
• Occasional overtime based on surgical schedule and patient needs
• Collaborative and team-oriented culture in a hospital setting