Travel Nurse RN - PACU - Post Anesthesia Care
Lawrence, MA
Trexoros Health
3x12 hrs, Evenings

Position: Travel PACU Registered Nurse (RN)
Employment Type: Travel Contract
Department: Post-Anesthesia Care Unit / PACU

Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced Travel PACU Registered Nurse to provide specialized care to patients recovering from anesthesia following surgical and diagnostic procedures. The PACU RN is responsible for closely monitoring patients as they emerge from anesthesia, managing pain and nausea, identifying potential complications, and ensuring patients meet appropriate recovery criteria before discharge or transfer.

Responsibilities
Provide direct nursing care to patients recovering from general, regional, and monitored anesthesia.
Closely monitor vital signs, respiratory status, oxygenation, cardiac rhythm, level of consciousness, and pain.
Assess patients for complications related to anesthesia and surgical procedures.
Manage post-operative pain, nausea, vomiting, and other common recovery needs.
Administer medications, IV fluids, and blood products as ordered.
Maintain and manage IV lines, drains, catheters, and other post-operative equipment.
Monitor patients for airway obstruction, respiratory distress, bleeding, and hemodynamic instability.
Respond rapidly to changes in patient condition and initiate appropriate interventions.
Collaborate with anesthesiologists, surgeons, physicians, and other healthcare professionals.
Provide thorough patient handoff to inpatient units, procedural areas, or other departments.
Educate patients and families regarding post-operative care and discharge instructions.
Maintain accurate documentation in the electronic medical record.
Follow facility policies, infection-control procedures, and patient-safety standards.
Requirements
Active Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of assignment.
Recent PACU/Perioperative nursing experience preferred or required depending on the facility.
Current BLS certification.
ACLS certification typically required.
PALS certification may be required depending on the patient population.
Strong knowledge of post-anesthesia recovery and airway management.
Excellent assessment, critical-thinking, and communication skills.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced surgical environment.