Registered Nurse PACU

Overview:

Shift’s Available:  Variable 

Employment Type: Per Diem (PD/PRN) 

Hours: Variable 

Location: St. Joseph Medical Center - Kansas City, MO

 

 

We are seeking a Post Anesthesia Care RN, also referred to as a PACU Nurse or PACU RN in the recovery room area for our post anesthesia care unit (PACU). The PACU RN, or Recovery Room Nurse, plays a critical role in our surgery center by caring for patients as they regain consciousness after surgery or other perioperative procedures requiring anesthesia. PACU RNs are essential in ensuring a safe recovery from anesthesia, addressing any complications promptly, and supporting patients through the critical early stages of post-operative or perioperative care. This position is on a per diem basis, meaning PD/PRN as needed. 

 

Responsibilities:

**If you have at least one year of experience in the Perioperative area of the operating room as a Circulator, OR Nurse, PACU Nurse or Surgical Nurse you are encouraged to apply! 

 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities (includes, but not limited to): 

• Closely monitor patients’ vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and respiration, to detect any complications early 

• Assess and manage pain levels, administer medications as needed to keep the patient comfortable 

• Ensure the patient maintains a clear airway and adequate breathing, address any respiratory issues that may arise post-anesthesia 

• Continuously assess the patient’s level of consciousness, neurological status, and overall stability as they recover from anesthesia 

• Inspect surgical sites, manage drains, and dress wounds as necessary, while observing for signs of infection or other complications 

• Offer reassurance and comfort to patients as they wake up, often disoriented, in a calm and soothing environment, keep the patient’s family informed about their condition and the expected timeline for recovery 

• Communicate with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals regarding the patient’s status and any concerns that arise 

• Document all aspects of care provided, including medications administered, patient responses, and any interventions performed 

• Deliver post-operative discharge instructions to outpatients prior to discharge 

Qualifications:

Education and Work Experience

1. Current and valid state RN License.
2. Current BLS (AHA) certificate upon hire and maintain current.
3. ACLS (AHA) certificate 30 days upon hire and maintain current.
4. PALS (AHA) certificate preferred.
5. Previous Critical Care or PACU experience or minimum of one year on the job training.
6. Critical Care RN (CCRN) preferred.
7. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred.

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Employment Status: Per Diem Shift: Days Equal Employment Opportunity: