Preop PACU RN - PT

JOB TITLE: Preop PACU Nurse

To act as patient advocate, providing continuity of care designed to meet individual patient needs through collaboration with other members of the health care team at the Center.  Supports the philosophy, objectives and goals of the Center. The Pre-op/PACU nurse will ensure quality care to the individual patients pre-operatively including, but not limited to geriatric, adult, pediatric and adolescent patients.

GENERAL SUMMARY OF DUTIES: 

Assists in the provision of nursing care to patients in an Ambulatory Surgical Center setting. Assesses the physical and emotional needs of patients and implements appropriate nursing interventions. Respects patient's right to privacy, dignity and confidentiality.

Assists the patient to undress, if the patient needs assistance, and gives locker assignment to patient's family. Follows appropriate Pre-Op/Admitting policies and procedures. Performs pre-operative instruction and explanation according to facility policy and procedure. Is knowledgeable about and responsive to emergency situations, i.e. cardiac arrest, malignant hyperthermia, drug reaction, fire, disaster etc.

Reports and completes appropriate forms for incidents related to patients, visitors, and employees. Attends and participates in staff meetings and staff development programs, including mandatory ones. Assists with all other duties as the need arises or as assigned. Ensures that patients are seen by the anesthesiologist prior to being taken to the OR. Sets priorities to facilitate the timely and efficient flow of patients throughout the day. Prepares and restocks the Pre-Operative/PACU area for the following day. Makes Preop and Postop phone calls to the patients. 

REQUIREMENTS:

• Licensure as Registered Nurse in the State of Texas
• Current CPR and ACLS certification, required
• Obtain PALS certification within 6 months of start date
• Demonstrates ability to stand and/or walk at least five hours per day
• Demonstrates ability to lift and/or carry over 20 pounds on a regular basis
• Demonstrates ability to push/pull over 25 pounds on a regular basis
• Demonstrates cooperative work attitude toward and with co-employees, management, patients, visitors and physicians.

Licenses & Certifications

• Advanced Cardiac Life Sup
• Registered Nurse
• Basic Life Support