Registered Nurse PACU PT

Job Summary

Western Carolina Surgery Center is hiring a Registered Nurse for our Post‑Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) department.

• Conduct thorough preoperative assessments, collecting patient medical histories, vital signs, and current medications.
• Educate patients and their families on the surgical process, postoperative care instructions, and necessary preparations.
• Administer prescribed medications, including preoperative sedatives and antibiotics, in accordance with physician orders and best practices.
• Ensure strict adherence to infection control protocols to minimize surgical site infections.
• Establish and maintain intravenous (IV) lines as required and monitor fluid and electrolyte balance.
• Collaborate closely with the surgical team, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure smooth preoperative preparations.

• Provide postoperative care to patients in the PACU, monitoring vital signs, pain levels, and overall well‑being.
• Advocate for patients' comfort and safety, managing pain and addressing immediate postoperative concerns.
• Continuously assess patients for signs of complications or adverse reactions, taking prompt action as needed.
• Administer postoperative medications, including pain management and antiemetics, while closely monitoring their effects.
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive patient records, documenting all care provided, observations, and patient responses.
• Collaborate with the surgical team to ensure patients are ready for discharge and provide discharge instructions.

• Graduate of an accredited nursing program.
• Current RN license in the state of North Carolina.
• BLS and ACLS certifications required.

• Previous experience in a preoperative and postoperative nursing role.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Team‑player ability to work collaboratively in a fast‑paced surgical environment.

• Medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage.
• Life and AD&D coverage.
• Short‑ and long‑term disability availability.
• Flexible financial benefits, including FSAs and HSAs.
• 401(k) with retirement planning access.
• Paid holidays and vacation.