PACU Registered Nurse

About the Role

The PACU RN plays a critical role in the recovery and care of patients undergoing orthopedic surgeries, including joint replacements, spinal surgeries, and arthroscopic procedures. This position involves close collaboration with anesthesia professionals, physicians, and ancillary staff. The PACU RN manages a high patient volume, ensuring safety, comfort, and effective discharge teaching during the immediate postoperative period in a fast-paced outpatient surgical environment.

Schedule

Full-time, Monday–Friday. Shifts available: 10:00 AM–6:30 PM or 1:00 PM–9:30 PM. No weekends, on-call, or holidays.

Responsibilities

• Monitor patient recovery and manage post-anesthesia care for orthopedic surgery patients
• Perform IV insertions in preparation for procedures
• Provide discharge teaching and post-op instructions to patients
• Maintain a safe environment and adhere to safety protocols
• Conduct pre-op and post-op patient phone calls as needed
• Collaborate effectively with anesthesia team, MDs, PAs, LPNs, radiology techs, and other staff
• Utilize various procedural equipment safely and proficiently
• Support a high patient volume, typically 8+ patients per shift
• Perform pre-operative patient assessments, including medical history, medication reconciliation, and surgical readiness
• Prepare patients for surgery, including IV initiation, pre-op medications, patient education, and verification of surgical consents
• Collaborate with surgeons and perioperative staff to ensure efficient case flow
• Handle other duties as assigned within the surgical team

Requirements

• Current NYS RN License
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
• Current Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification

Qualifications

• 1+ year of nursing experience preferred
• Strong patient assessment and IV therapy skills
• Experience in postoperative care and orthopedic patient management
• Knowledge of orthopedic procedures including joint replacements, spine surgeries, and arthroscopy
• Excellent teamwork, communication, and critical thinking abilities
• Familiarity with safety protocols and maintaining a safe care environment