Travel Nurse RN - PACU - Post Anesthesia Care
Torrance, CA
NuWest Travel Nursing
3x12 hrs

Specialty: Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) Discipline: Registered Nurse (RN) Location: Los Angeles, California Employment Type: Travel Contract Assignment Length: 8 Weeks Schedule: 3 x 12 Hours Shift: Cross Shift Start Date: ASAP

Position Overview

NuWest is seeking an experienced PACU RN for a travel contract opportunity in Los Angeles, California. In this role, you will provide skilled post-anesthesia nursing care to patients recovering from surgical and procedural interventions in a fast-paced, high-acuity environment. The ideal candidate brings strong assessment skills, composure under pressure, and a commitment to delivering safe, patient-centered recovery care.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and assess patients recovering from anesthesia and surgical procedures, identifying and responding to changes in neurological, hemodynamic, and respiratory status
• Manage airway, including positioning, supplemental oxygen, and emergency intervention for obstruction or respiratory compromise
• Administer and titrate medications — including opioids, reversal agents, and antiemetics — per physician orders to maintain patient comfort and safety
• Perform frequent vital sign assessment and document patient responses to treatment and interventions in the electronic medical record (EMR)
• Recognize and manage post-operative complications including hypotension, arrhythmias, delayed emergence, and pain crisis
• Collaborate with anesthesiologists, surgeons, and the OR team to ensure accurate handoffs and continuity of care
• Educate patients and families on post-operative expectations, pain management strategies, and discharge instructions
• Maintain a safe, organized recovery environment in compliance with infection control, regulatory, and facility standards

Required Qualifications

• Active California RN License
• Minimum 1–2 years of recent PACU or critical care RN experience; Level I Trauma experience preferred
• Current BLS, ACLS, MAB (Managing Assaultive Behavior), and LA Fire Safety certification
• Live Scan fingerprinting must be completed on-site in LA County prior to orientation
• Must be able to pass required background checks and drug screening

Why NuWest?

At NuWest, we connect talented healthcare professionals with opportunities that fit their experience, career goals, and lifestyle.

NuWest Benefits may include:

• Competitive weekly pay
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance options
• 401(k) retirement savings plan
• Direct deposit
• Referral bonuses
• Personalized support from your NuWest recruiting and account management team
• Credentialing and compliance support
• Exclusive healthcare opportunities nationwide
• 24/7 support while you're on assignment