RN - PRE-OP​/PACU

Responsibilities

• Responsible for planning, executing, directing, and evaluating nursing care for surgical patients during the pre‑operative and post‑operative periods, including preparation of the environment, equipment, and supplies.
• Participates in patient preparation for surgery, performs pre‑admission assessments orally or in person, provides pre‑instructions, ensures all necessary data is recorded before admission or procedure, and communicates abnormal history to the anesthesiologist.
• Maintains communication with reception and OR/Endoscopic rooms to assure efficient patient movement; assists with medication preparation for blocks and local injections; admits patients in the pre‑operative area following admission protocols.
• Receives patients from OR/Endoscopic rooms, assesses their condition on admission and discharge, and documents findings in PACU records.
• Observes and monitors post‑operative patients, taking vital signs, monitoring EKG, and documenting progress while in PACU.
• Administers medications, IVs, and treatments; maintains dispensing records; observes reactions and responds appropriately to adverse events.
• Assists physicians with sterile and non‑sterile dressing changes and other procedures as requested.
• Assures patients are never left unattended in the recovery area and provides post‑operative instruction summaries before discharge.
• Ensures patients have follow‑up appointments before discharge if ordered by physician; provides respiratory support, including AMBU bag, airway management, endotracheal tubes, CPR, defibrillation, and venipuncture in emergencies.
• Maintains knowledge of Code Blue/crash cart protocols, safety precautions, and procedures; remains familiar with equipment function, location, and upkeep, assists with restocking, and maintains a safe recovery environment.
• Performs other duties as deemed necessary.

• Graduate of an accredited School of Registered Nursing.
• Active Florida RN license.
• Minimum one year experience in PACU or Critical Care.
• Current CPR, ACLS, and PALC certifications.