Travel Nurse RN - PACU - Post Anesthesia Care
Hermiston, OR
Wellspring Nurse Source
2x12 hrs, Days

Definition of Position: The Registered Nurse specializing in perioperative practice performs nursing activities in the pre-anesthesia, post-anesthesia Phase I, and post-anesthesia Phase II care of the patient's surgical experience. The recovery RN monitors patients undergoing “local only” procedures in the operating room and may administer conscious sedation if certified. This role ensures quality care for pre- and post-procedure patients through the nursing process and adherence to established standards of care and policies. The peri-anesthesia nurse also advocates for patients and oversees any assigned personnel.

Essential Job Functions:

• Complete nursing assessments on patients in the pre- and postoperative phases of care.
• Perform patient admissions according to established standards.
• Initiate and manage intravenous access.
• Monitor patients for changes in vital signs and consciousness; report and intervene as needed based on medical guidelines.
• Utilize the Aldrete scoring system in the PACU phase of care.
• Maintain patient airway and adequate respiratory function.
• Perform interventions to support the patient's physiological systems and fluid/electrolyte balance.
• Consistently inform medical staff about the patient's condition.
• Administer pain medications and assess their effectiveness.
• Address post-operative nausea with medications and comfort measures.
• Develop individualized peri-anesthesia care plans.
• Assist anesthesia with various procedures as needed.
• Administer medications adhering to the eight rights of safe medication practices.
• Monitor surgical site integrity to ensure tissue perfusion and promote infection prevention.
• Maintain normothermia throughout the continuum of care.
• Evaluate patient's and caretaker's understanding of care plans and provide education on expected outcomes and necessary care.
• Assess progress towards desired health outcomes.
• Collaborate effectively with other disciplines and nursing staff.
• Transfer patient care as required.
• Delegate tasks following state nursing guidelines.
• Utilize critical thinking, problem-solving, and conflict resolution skills.
• Advocate for patients while safeguarding privacy and health information.
• Involve patients and/or support persons in decision-making regarding their care plans.
• Adhere to safety protocols, including fall risk and infection control.
• Maintain accurate documentation in electronic medical records.
• Participate in required education for relevant programs as applicable.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Education:

• Required: Associate of Applied Science in Nursing.
• Preferred: Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Licenses/Certifications/Registrations:

• Required: Current Registered Nurse License in the State, BLS/PALS/ACLS, & TNCC.
• Preferred: Conscious sedation certification, CAPA/CPAN certification, Ultrasound Guided IV certification, CRASE training.

Experience:

• Required: One year of critical care experience or two years of medical-surgical experience.
• Preferred: Previous experience in day surgery, PACU, pre-admission services, or ambulatory surgery centers.

Physical Requirements:

This position requires sufficient auditory ability to respond to various sounds, including patient alarms and communication. It necessitates clear communication skills for interaction with patients, families, and healthcare team members. Visual acuity is essential for observing patient conditions and interpreting documentation and monitoring equipment. Tactile perception is important for assessing physical characteristics during patient care, and motor coordination is needed for operating medical equipment. The role involves frequent walking and standing, lifting up to 50 pounds independently, and the possibility of assisting patients or moving equipment.

Working Conditions:

The position is performed primarily in an indoor healthcare environment. While protected from outdoor conditions, there may be variable indoor temperatures. The work involves exposure to infectious diseases, hazardous materials, and medical equipment, requiring adherence to safety protocols and utilization of personal