Registered Nurse - PreOp PACU

Job Details

Job Location:

SURGICAL HOSPITAL - MANHATTAN, KS 66502 Position Type:
Full Time - 32 hrs or more per week Job Shift: Days - 8 hr shifts

Duties of the RN opening PACU/Pre-op/Step-down for the day include:

• Check crash cart and 02 tank.
• Restock refrigerator with fluid supply.
• Readies area to receive patients from surgery.
• Checks drug out-dates monthly.
• Makes Pre- and post-operative phone calls to patients.
• Post-operative care of the surgical patient includes:
• Airway maintenance
• Stabilization of vital signs.
• Safe emergence from anesthesia.
• Control of pain and nausea by administration of drugs.
• Orientation to surroundings.
• Administration of special equipment (i.e., ice bags, post-op shoes, slings).
• Offer nourishments.
• Duties for opening the Pre-op area for the day:
• Review anesthesia health history.
• Check schedule against pre-op phone call
• Check for H&P's
• Make pre-op phone calls when indicated.
• Assesses physical and emotional needs of patients and implements appropriate measures needed.
• Nursing interventions. Include confirmation of the following information:
• Allergies
• Medications taken day of surgery prior to arrival
• Dentures, contacts, or glasses
• Pertinent medical conditions
• Pertinent current/past medical history
• Confirmation of consent and operative side
• Confirmation of responsible party
• Assesses or performs the following:
• Obtains VS (age specific)
• Temperature
• Weight and height
• Accu-Chek for blood sugar, if applicable
• Pregnancy test, if applicable
• Start IV on all patients, except those who have an order not to start an IV. Utilizes anesthesia orders regarding IV fluids and catheter size.
• Respects patients’ right to privacy, dignity, and confidentiality.
• Assists the patient to undress, if patient needs assistance, and gives locker key to patient’s family or places key on front of charts.
• Follows appropriate Pre-Op/Admitting policies and procedures.
• Performs pre-operative instruction and explanation according to facility policy and procedure.
• Provides preoperative instruction and explanation of patient rights and Responsibilities.
• Describes the perioperative experience to the patient and the participation of the significant other, including what to expect before, during and after the procedure.
• Completes the nursing pre-assessment record.
• Follow proper procedures regarding exposure to Category I tasks.
• Follows proper procedures for handling hazardous waste materials.
• Documents vital signs, nurse's notes and drugs administered on the appropriate record.
• Notes and following providers orders. (Both surgeons and anesthesia provider).
• Reviews discharge instructions and educates patient and/or responsible adult with appropriate information to alleviate fears and maintain optimal post-op care in the home environment.
• Obtains discharge order from anesthesia provider or surgeon (if local anesthesia) prior to discharge.
• Makes Post Op calls of previous days' patients to check patient's condition. Records patient reports and any complications.
• Proper documentation on all transfers to a higher level of care and files QA Variance Report with Supervisor.
• Assists with nerve blocks performed by anesthesia providers in the Pre-Op /PACU area.
• Cleans stretchers, bays & equipment after each patient and restock supplies.
• Just prior to leaving, does the following:
• Cleans the Pre-op, PACU, and Step-down areas and prepares it for the following day
• Locks drug cupboards.
• Deposit keys in locked box.
• Turns off all appropriate appliances.
• Secures medical charts, prescription pads.
• Closes supply closet door.
• Logs off computers.
• Turn off all lights.
• Attends and participates in staff meetings and staff development programs, including mandatory ones.
• Participates in CQI process and activities.
• Reports and completes appropriate forms for incidents related to patients, visitors, and employees.
• Is knowledgeable about and responsive to emergency situations, i.e., cardiac arrest
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

• Licensed as Registered Nurse in the State of Kansas
• Current CPR certification. ACLS certification. PALS certification
• Demonstrate 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.