Rn Pre-Operative & Post-Operative; Pacu

The Pre-Op/Post-Op Registered Nurse provides comprehensive, specialized nursing care to outpatients undergoing same-day surgical procedures. This dual role is responsible for the holistic preparation of the patient prior to surgery (Pre-Op) as well as the immediate post-anesthesia recovery and stabilization (PACU) required for a safe return home. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, possesses excellent clinical assessment skills, and delivers compassionate, patient-centered care.

• Patient Admission & Assessment:
  Perform comprehensive baseline physical and psychological assessments, review medical histories, allergies, and current medications.
• Surgical Readiness:
  Verify patient identity, NPO status, completed lab work/EKGs, and ensure correct surgical site marking according to facility protocols.
• Consents:
  Verify that all operative and informed surgical/anesthesia consents are signed and accurately documented.
• Clinical Prep:
  Establish peripheral IV access, initiate ordered IV fluids, and administer ordered pre-operative medications (antibiotics, anti-anxiety, etc.).
• Patient
  
  Education:
  
  Provide preoperative teaching to the patient and family members regarding what to expect during and after the procedure.

• Airway & Recovery Management:
  Monitor and manage the patient's airway, breathing, and circulation as they emerge from general, regional, or local anesthesia.
• Vital Sign Monitoring:
  Routinely track and document vital signs, cardiac rhythms, and neurological status.
• Pain & Symptom Control:
  Assess and manage post-operative pain, nausea, and vomiting using prescribed medications and non-pharmacological interventions.
• Crisis Intervention:
  Recognize immediate post-op complications (e.g., respiratory depression, hemorrhage, cardiac events) and intervene appropriately with emergency protocols.

• Discharge Criteria Evaluation:
  Evaluate patient readiness for discharge using standardized scoring systems (e.g., Aldrete score).
• Patient & Caregiver Discharge Teaching:
  Deliver clear instructions regarding wound care, medication management, activity restrictions, and emergency contact details to the patient and their designated adult escort.