The post-anesthesia care Unit (PACU) nurse cares for patients who have under gone anesthesia. The post-anesthesia care Unit (PACU) nurse is responsible for observing and treating a patient postoperation and making sure that they safely awake from anesthesia. The PACU nurse must monitor vital signs and levels of consciousness to make sure that the sedation is wearing off properly, there are no adverse reactions occurring and patients are regaining consciousness. Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Coordinates patient care. Communicates with surgeon and anesthesiologist continuously as needed about patient conditions; receives direction for patient management. Intercedes to maintain optimum homeostasis
Demonstrates knowledge of perioperative factors that alter immediate postoperative phase. Utilizes nursing procedures as a media for communication and interaction with patient
Identifies physical symptoms/changes and takes appropriate action in a timely manner
Demonstrates knowledge of airway management and procedures and the ability to use the equipment
Demonstrates ability to assess cardio-respiratory systems for changes and provide appropriate treatment
Observes behavioral and physiologic changes due to medications; takes appropriate action and documents
Adjusts and acts upon expectations of patient's behavior according to the effect medication has on the patient
Demonstrates ability to adequately assess and reassess pain and uses appropriate pain management techniques
Demonstrates knowledge of anesthetic drugs, actions and side effects
Demonstrates knowledge of arterial lines, central lines, spinal/epidural catheters and how to document
Carries out medical/surgical asepsis during treatments and special procedures
Carries out established techniques for safe administration of medications and parenteral fluids, according to hospital policy and procedure
Carries out safety measures to prevent patient from harming self or others
Provides explanations and teaching to patient/family, as necessary
Protects patient's sensitivities and right to privacy; maintains confidentiality at all times
Other duties as assigned
Minimum Requirements:
Current RN licensure in the state in which RN is working.
ACLS and PALS certification per contract requirements.
Complies with all relevant professional standards of practice
Participation and completion of Amergis' Competency program when applicable
Current CPR if applicable
TB Questionnaire, PPD or chest x-ray if applicable
Current Health certificate (per contract or state regulation)
Must meet all federal, state and local requirements
Successful completion of new hire training as applicable to job site
Understand patient confidentiality and HIPAA requirements
Ability to effectively elicit/provide information to and from appropriate individuals (including, but not limited to, supervisors, co-workers, clients) via strong communication skills; proficiency in the English language is required
Computer proficiency required
Must be at least 18 years of age
Benefits
At Amergis, we firmly believe that our employees are the heartbeat of our organization and we are happy to offer the following benefits:
Competitive pay & weekly paychecks
Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
401(k) savings plan
Awards and recognition programs
Benefit eligibility is dependent on employment status.
About Amergis
Amergis, formerly known as Maxim Healthcare Staffing, has served our clients and communities by connecting people to the work that matters since 1988. We provide meaningful opportunities to our extensive network of healthcare and school-based professionals, ready to work in any hospital, government facility, or school. Through partnership and innovation, Amergis creates unmatched staffing experiences to deliver the best workforce solutions. Amergis is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.