RN, Post Anesthesia Recovery

Position Summary

The RN, Post Anesthesia Recovery provides specialized nursing care to patients emerging from anesthesia following surgical or procedural interventions. This role conducts comprehensive post‑anesthesia assessments, closely monitors hemodynamic and respiratory status, manages airway support, and delivers evidence‑based care to promote safe recovery from sedation or anesthesia. Working collaboratively with anesthesia providers, surgeons, and perioperative team members, the RN supports timely interventions and effective patient stabilization.

As part of a highly coordinated, team‑oriented recovery environment, this position promotes patient safety, comfort, and readiness for transfer or discharge through vigilant observation, sound clinical judgment, and clear communication with patients and families.

• Assess and monitor patients transitioning from anesthesia, including airway patency, respiratory status, consciousness level, pain control, and vital signs.
• Administer medications, manage IV access, support airway and oxygenation needs, and respond rapidly to changes in patient condition.
• Provide postoperative education and reassurance to patients and families, ensuring understanding of recovery expectations and discharge instructions.
• Document assessments, interventions, and communication accurately in the electronic health record to maintain regulatory compliance and continuity of care.
• Collaborate with anesthesia, surgery, and postoperative units to coordinate timely transfer and facilitate safe patient progression through the perioperative continuum.
• Participate in quality improvement, safety initiatives, and competency development to support high‑reliability PACU practice.

• Current or temporary RN license in ND or compact RN licensure
• BLS required within orientation period
• ACLS and PALS required within 6 months in department
• TNCC course will be attended at least once after orientation to PACU is completed

• RN program as evidenced by licensure

• Previous critical care experience is preferred

None

The RN frequently stands, walks, bends, and reaches while providing immediate postoperative care. The role requires the ability to assist with repositioning, transferring, and supporting sedated or partially mobile patients. Fine motor skills, hearing acuity, and visual precision are essential for airway management, equipment monitoring, and medication administration. The work may require quick movement in urgent or emergent clinical situations.

Work occurs in a fast‑paced PACU environment with continuous monitoring alarms, close interaction with anesthesia equipment, and exposure to bodily fluids and cleaning agents. The RN must adhere to infection‑control practices and utilize required PPE. The environment involves caring for patients who may experience pain, confusion, or respiratory compromise, requiring calm decision‑making, rapid response, and effective communication within an interdisciplinary surgical services team.