PACU Registered Nurse
Wilmington, NC
Modern Healthcare Solutions
3x12 hrs, Days
Referral Bonus

Position: Registered Nurse - Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU)

Location: City, State

Shift: Day 3x12-Hour (06:45 - 19:15)

Job Description:

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Registered Nurse for our Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU). This role involves providing high-quality nursing care to patients recovering from anesthesia and surgical procedures.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage care for patients in the PACU, observing and monitoring vital signs, and responding to any changes in patient condition.
• Administer medications and provide procedural sedation administration and monitoring.
• Utilize advanced skills in antiarrhythmics, anticoagulation therapy, antihypertensives, and emergency medications.
• Conduct thorough pain assessments and implement pain management strategies, including PCA pump management.
• Monitor and manage patients with central lines, arterial lines, and those on ventilators.
• Work within a team to provide optimal patient care and recovery monitoring post-surgery.

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum of 2 years of experience as a Registered Nurse, with specific PACU experience preferred.
• Prior ICU experience is required for candidates with strong PACU background.
• Certifications in ACLS, BLS, and PALS are essential.
• Experience in a pediatric Phase II PACU setting is strongly preferred.
• Ability to float to short stay units when necessary.
• Willingness to participate in a call rotation once every four weeks.

Patient Care:

The PACU provides care to a diverse patient demographic, including adolescents, infants, adults, and geriatrics. Daily census ranges from 75 to 100 patients, with the capacity to manage various surgical cases including:

• Thoracotomies
• Pediatric cases (T&A, Ears, Hernias, Cleft Lip/Palate)
• Vascular and Endovascular surgeries
• Neurosurgery and Orthopedics
• Gynecology, Urology, General, Bariatric, Plastics, ENT, and Ophthalmology

Special Procedures/Unit Details:

The PACU is a dynamic environment providing observation and care for patients undergoing surgical procedures requiring anesthesia. Patients may be received directly from the Operating Room, Endoscopy, Interventional Radiology, and must be monitored for 30 to 90 minutes until they meet the discharge criteria to Phase II, home, or ICU.

Equipment and Systems:

Staff utilize various advanced medical equipment and systems, including:

• Cardiac monitors for vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, O2 saturation)
• Continuous monitoring systems for arterial lines and ICP monitoring
• Electronic documentation systems (Epic, Perfect Serve, Pyxis)

Orientation and Support:

New hires will receive a comprehensive, individualized orientation tailored to their experience and skill level. Interdisciplinary support is available from various teams including IV Therapy, Physical Therapy, Respiratory Services, and more.

Professional Environment:

The position requires adaptability as the PACU operates 24/7, with staffing based on the needs of the operating room. Staff may be required to work during critical events, mass casualties, or natural disasters. We value teamwork and commitment to delivering exceptional patient care.

If you are a qualified Registered Nurse looking to advance your career in a challenging yet rewarding environment, we encourage you to apply for this position in our PACU.