Travel Nurse RN - PACU - Post Anesthesia Care
Winter Haven, FL
MedCadre
4x10 hrs, Days
Referral Bonus

Job description:
Job Title: RN – PACU (Post Anesthesia Care Unit)

Location: Winter Haven, FL 33881
Start Date: May 11, 2026
Duration: 13 Weeks
Shift: Day – 4x10 Hours (9:00 AM – 7:30 PM)
 

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled and compassionate Post-Anesthesia Care Unit Registered Nurse (PACU RN) to join our dynamic healthcare team. The PACU RN plays a vital role in providing specialized postoperative care to patients recovering from anesthesia and surgical procedures. This position requires a dedicated professional capable of performing comprehensive patient assessments, managing acute pain, and ensuring safe recovery through meticulous monitoring and intervention. The ideal candidate will bring critical care experience, proficiency with electronic health record (EHR) systems, and a strong commitment to delivering exceptional patient-centered care in a fast-paced environment.
 

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough pre- and post-operative assessments, including vital signs, airway management, and physiological evaluations.
• Monitor patients closely for signs of complications such as bleeding, respiratory distress, or adverse reactions to anesthesia.
• Administer medications, including IV infusions and analgesics, following established protocols to manage pain and prevent complications.
• Maintain aseptic technique during procedures such as suturing or catheter care to prevent infection.
• Collaborate with surgical teams, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate patient care plans.
• Document all patient interactions accurately within EMR (Electronic Medical Records) or EHR systems like Epic or Cerner.
• Provide education and discharge instructions to patients and their families regarding post-operative care, medication management, and activity restrictions.
• Assist with emergency interventions in cases of trauma or acute deterioration, utilizing skills in airway management and ventilator support.
• Ensure compliance with HIPAA regulations and infection control standards throughout all patient interactions.
• Support continuity of care by preparing patients for transfer to inpatient units or home care services.

Skills

• Proven experience in critical care settings such as ICU, PACU, or emergency medicine with familiarity in Level I or Level II trauma centers.
• Proficiency with EMR/EHR systems including Epic, Cerner, or similar platforms.
• Strong knowledge of physiology, anatomy, and pharmacology relevant to anesthesia recovery.
• Skilled in IV insertion, medication administration, tube feeding management, and specimen collection/processing.
• Experience with advanced airway management techniques and ventilator support.
• Ability to perform physical examinations accurately and assess complex patient needs.
• Familiarity with ICD coding (ICD-10/ICD-9), CPT coding, and medical documentation standards.
• Excellent communication skills for effective triage, patient education, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Knowledge of infection control practices and aseptic techniques essential for safe patient care.

(Required)
Minimum one (1) year of RN experience (ICU or PACU preferred)

• First-time travelers accepted with prior ICU experience
• Proficiency in IV therapy and patient monitoring
• Strong critical thinking and emergency response skills

Certifications Required:

• AHA BLS
• RN state license
• AHA ACLS
• AHA PALS