RN PreOP PACU

Job Overview

Position:
Registered Nurse – PACU & Pre‑Op

Location:

Northwest Medical Center (Northwest, Tucson)

Hours:

Full time, Monday–Friday with occasional weekend shifts and flexible call in Pre‑Op and Post‑Op (PACU).The recovery room (PACU) and Pre‑OP unit is a 50‑bed area that cares for patients before and after surgery. Northwest Medical Center operates 16 operating rooms and performs highly specialized cutting‑edge and minimally invasive procedures. The nurse will provide quality patient‑care and support both surgical teams and patients throughout their peri‑operative journey.

• Coordinate and deliver high‑quality, patient‑centered care in accordance with organizational policies, protocols, and the nursing process.
• Conduct thorough patient assessments and document findings accurately, reporting changes in condition to the appropriate care team.
• Use knowledge of human growth and development to provide age‑appropriate care and education.
• Administer prescribed medications, monitor for side effects, and document administration per standards of practice.
• Assist physicians during procedures within scope of competence and skill level.
• Collaborate with the healthcare team to develop, implement, and evaluate individualized care plans based on patient assessments.
• Respond to medical emergencies and participate in life‑saving interventions such as CPR and code team activities.
• Advocate for patients’ rights and needs, ensuring their voices are heard in care planning and delivery.
• Provide patient and family education on medical conditions, treatment plans, and post‑discharge care.
• Implement and adhere to infection control protocols to prevent healthcare‑associated infections.
• Monitor and operate medical equipment (e.g., IV pumps, monitors, ventilators) as needed for patient care and safety.
• Promote patient safety by adhering to National Patient Safety Goals and maintaining a clean, safe environment.
• Participate in audits, chart reviews, and compliance checks to ensure adherence to standards and regulatory requirements.
• Demonstrate responsible decision‑making in planning, delegating, and providing care based on patient needs and organizational policies.
• Document patient care and education thoroughly and promptly in the medical record.
• Engage in professional development to maintain clinical competency and current nursing standards.
• Participate in performance improvement initiatives, including data collection and process development, to enhance patient outcomes.

• Assess the patient’s level of consciousness and responsiveness as they wake from anesthesia.
• Evaluate pain levels and administer pain medications as prescribed.
• Observe any side effects of anesthesia, such as nausea, vomiting, shivering, or muscle aches.
• Monitor for and respond to post‑operative complications.
• Administer medications, including pain relievers and other post‑operative medications.
• Regulate intravenous fluids and monitor fluid balance.
• Check and change dressings on surgical wounds.
• Ensure a clear airway and provide oxygen support as needed.
• Educate patients and families about post‑surgery care, potential complications, and discharge instructions.

• 0–2 years of experience in a clinical nursing role or student clinical rotations in an acute care setting.
• Strong knowledge of the nursing process and clinical nursing practices.
• Ability to perform thorough patient assessments and communicate findings effectively.
• Proficient in administering medications and monitoring for side effects.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration with interdisciplinary teams.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in documenting patient care.
• Knowledge of safety standards, infection control, and quality improvement initiatives.

• Registered Nurse (RN) – State Licensure and/or Compact State Licensure required.
• BCLS – Basic Life Support required.
• ACLS – Advanced Cardiac Life Support required.
• PALS – Pediatric Advanced Life Support required.

• Health insurance
• Flexible scheduling
• 100% licensure/certification reimbursement
• Tuition reimbursement
• Up to $20,000 toward student loan payments

Northwest Medical Center is an equal opportunity employer and a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. We provide a diverse and inclusive workplace for all employees, regardless of race, gender, disability, Veteran status, or other protected categories.