Perioperative/PACU Registered Nurse (RN)

Job Summary

The Outpatient Services/PACU Nurse is responsible for ensuring safe preparation, education, and discharge of patients scheduled for procedures. This includes assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation of patients in outpatient services, pre-op, post-op, PACU, and procedural sedation. The nurse must demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide age-appropriate care for patients served within the unit.

Qualifications

• Current Wyoming licensure as a Registered Professional Nurse.
• BLS, ACLS, and PALS certifications required.
• TNCC certification required within six months of hire, as class availability allows.
• National perioperative certification preferred.
• Minimum of two years of experience in an acute care or surgical services area preferred.

Key Skills

• Knowledge of perioperative and post-anesthesia care nursing principles.
• Familiarity with aseptic techniques and infection control principles.
• Able to perform effectively in high-stress situations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Age-Specific Care

The nurse will work with patients of various age groups, including:

• Newborn
• Infant (birth through 1 month)
• Children (1 month through 12 years)
• Adolescents (13 through 17 years)
• Young Adults (18 through 34 years)
• Middle Adults (35 through 50 years)
• Mature Adults (51 through 69 years)
• Geriatric Adults (70 years and older)

Responsibilities

• Provide direct patient care, evaluate outcomes, and adjust the nursing care process as needed to ensure optimal care.
• Perform focused assessments and reassessments for various age groups.
• Monitor and interpret patients’ hemodynamic status.
• Identify cardiac arrhythmias and intervene appropriately using ACLS and PALS algorithms.
• Prepare patients for examinations or procedures and assist physicians as necessary.
• Maintain accurate nursing documentation, including patient history and treatment responses.
• Treat patients and families with respect and dignity, acting as a liaison among the patient, physician, and healthcare providers.
• Educate patients and their families based on identified learning needs and discuss discharge instructions.
• Administer medications and IV fluids appropriately based on patient age and condition.
• Perform treatments and procedures within the nurse’s training and capabilities.

Additional Duties

• Ensure cleanliness and readiness of work areas.
• Verify and restock supplies as needed.
• Complete departmental tasks, compliance checks, and assist with orientation of new employees.
• Attend mandatory in-service trainings and department meetings for ongoing professional development.
• Collaborate with other departments to facilitate smooth patient transfers.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Physical Demands

The role may require:

• Standing, walking, lifting, or carrying up to 35 pounds independently.
• Using assistive devices for lifting heavier items.
• Exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissues during duties.

Customer Service Commitment

All employees are expected to adhere to the organization’s mission, vision, and values, ensuring a commitment to quality care and customer service.