Registered Nurse PACU

About the role

We are seeking a Post Anesthesia Care RN, also referred to as a PACU Nurse in the recovery room area for our post anesthesia care unit (PACU). The PACU RN, or Recovery Room Nurse, plays a critical role in our surgery center by caring for patients as they regain consciousness after surgery or other perioperative procedures requiring anesthesia. PACU RNs are essential in ensuring a safe recovery from anesthesia, addressing any complications promptly, and supporting patients through the critical early stages of post-operative or perioperative care.

Shift & Location

• Shift: Days
• Employment Type: Full Time
• Location: St. Joseph Medical Center - Kansas City, MO

Responsibilities

• Closely monitor patients’ vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and respiration, to detect any complications early
• Assess and manage pain levels, administer medications as needed to keep the patient comfortable
• Ensure the patient maintains a clear airway and adequate breathing, address any respiratory issues that may arise post-anesthesia
• Continuously assess the patient’s level of consciousness, neurological status, and overall stability as they recover from anesthesia
• Inspect surgical sites, manage drains, and dress wounds as necessary, while observing for signs of infection or other complications
• Offer reassurance and comfort to patients as they wake up, often disoriented, in a calm and soothing environment, keep the patient’s family informed about their condition and the expected timeline for recovery
• Communicate with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals regarding the patient’s status and any concerns that arise
• Document all aspects of care provided, including medications administered, patient responses, and any interventions performed
• Deliver post-operative discharge instructions to outpatients prior to discharge

Qualifications

• Current and valid state RN License
• Current BLS (AHA) certificate upon hire and maintain current
• ACLS (AHA) certificate 30 days upon hire and maintain current
• Previous Critical Care or PACU experience or minimum of one year on the job training

Preferred Qualifications

• PALS (AHA) certificate preferred
• Critical Care RN (CCRN) preferred
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance options
• Paid vacation, sick time and holidays
• Bereavement leave, FMLA and other leave options
• Employer 401K options
• Tuition reimbursement options
• Life, disability, and other insurance options
• Many other amazing benefits

Sign-On Bonus Available for Qualified Candidates. Eligibility and payout terms apply. Details discussed during the interview process.