Assesses, plans, implements and evaluates care for all age patients. Provides care within nursing standards of practice and the policies of the Center. Makes decisions regarding direct patient care needs and communicates appropriate information to physicians, patients, family members, and personnel in other departments as well as team members. May have additional responsibilities as designated by the Clinical Director, which include, but are not limited to, serving on committees, participating in quality improvement audits and projects.

The Pre-Op/PACU RN has the responsibility to plan, direct organize, coordinate and implement all nursing care services for the pre-op and post surgical patients in a manner consistent with our mission statement. Nurses work within both pre-op holding and PACU (post-anesthesia care unit), where patients are cared for and monitored as they recover from the effects of anesthesia. The nurses responsibilities include all aspects of patient care prior to and following surgery. This care includes monitoring heart rate, blood pressure, breathing and respiration, as well as managing the pain and nausea that often follow anesthesia. Additionally they are responsible for:

Admits, transfers, and discharge of patients.

Completes ongoing patient assessment and documents according to policy.

Participates in the development of patient plan of care to include patient problems, goals, evaluations and interventions.

Reports symptoms and significant changes in patient’s condition to appropriate personnel immediately.

Assesses, collaborates and coordinates patient’s discharge planning needs and readiness for discharge with other members of the care team.

Demonstrates appropriate application of age specific standards, policies and procedures and guidelines in caring for adolescent, adult, and geriatric patients.

Demonstrates proficient IV setting skills.

Follows age specific standards in administering medications.

Follows age specific standards of care during altered states of consciousness related to analgesia, conscious sedation or anesthesia

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

Required Skills

Graduate of an accredited school of professional nursing.

Minimum of 2 year experience in Pre-Op and PACU/ Critical Care setting

Current Texas License as a Registered Nurse

Current in BLS, ACLS and PALS required

Possess the ability to work independently and prioritize responsibilities

Possess the ability to deal tactfully with patients, families, physicians, and employees

Knowledgeable of policies and procedures specific to pre-operative and PACU (post anesthesia care unit)

Clinically proficient in pre-op/ PACU nursing skills, demonstrating knowledge of the development needs of the pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric patient

Physically and emotionally capable of performing responsibilities of position　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　

Required Experience

Minimum of 2 year experience in Pre-Op and PACU/ Critical Care setting

Graduate of an accredited school of professional nursing.

Minimum of 2 year experience in Pre-Op and PACU/ Critical Care setting

Current Texas License as a Registered Nurse

Current in BLS, ACLS and PALS required

Possess the ability to work independently and prioritize responsibilities

Possess the ability to deal tactfully with patients, families, physicians, and employees

Knowledgeable of policies and procedures specific to pre-operative and PACU (post anesthesia care unit)

Clinically proficient in pre-op/ PACU nursing skills, demonstrating knowledge of the development needs of the pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric patient

Physically and emotionally capable of performing responsibilities of position