Registered Nurse (RN) - Pre/Post (Part-Time)

Position Summary

The Pre/Post RN is responsible for providing high-quality patient-centered care throughout the perioperative process in an orthopedic surgical center. This role involves preparing patients for surgery, monitoring them in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU), and ensuring a smooth recovery process before discharge. The nurse works closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to optimize patient outcomes and maintain safety standards.

Position Details

• Status: Part-Time
• Shift: Days
• FTE / Hours: 0.5 / 20
• Schedule: Mon - Fri: Two (2) 10-Hour Shifts w/ 4-Week rotating schedule 1 - 2 weeks of call per year

Position Requirements

• Education: Graduate of an accredited school/college of nursing required. Bachelor's degree preferred.
• Licensure: Registered Nursing licensed in the State of Nebraska or eligible compact state required.
• Certification: Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support Certification (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Cardiac Life Support (PALS) required or acquired within 90 days of hire or transfer date.
• Experience: 1+ years perioperative, medical-surgical or PACU experience preferred.

Required Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Strong understanding of preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative nursing care.
• Knowledge of anesthesia recovery protocols, pain management techniques, and potential complications.
• Ability to assess patient condition quickly and respond to emergencies appropriately.
• Excellent communication skills to educate patients and their families about surgical procedures and post-op care.
• Proficiency in electronic medical records (EMR) and documentation of patient assessments and interventions.
• Ability to multitask, manage time, and adapt in a fast-paced surgical environment.

Essential Job Functions

• Pre-Op:
• Conduct perioperative assessments, including medical history, allergies, and medication reconciliation.
• Prepare patients for surgery by starting IV's, administering prescribed preoperative medication, and ensuring informed consent.
• Collaborate with the surgical team to ensure proper patient preparation.
• Assist anesthesia team with nerve blocks and spinal anesthetic if appropriate.
• PACU:
• Monitor patients' vital signs, respiratory status, and level of consciousness during post-anesthesia recovery.
• Manage pain, nausea and other post-surgical symptoms using prescribed interventions and protocols.
• Identify and respond to adverse reactions or complications, escalating care when necessary.
• Provide emotional support and reassurance to patients recovering from anesthesia.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of patient assessments and interventions.
• Post Op:
• Evaluate patients for readiness to transition to discharge.
• Provide thorough discharge instructions, including pain management, wound care, and activity restrictions.
• Educate patients and their caregivers on signs of complications and when to seek medical attention.
• Ensure patient's leave with appropriate prescriptions, medical equipment, and follow up appointments.

Physical Requirements

• This position is classified as Medium Work in the Dictionary of Occupational Titles, requiring the exertion of 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
• Physical Demand requirements are in excess of those for Light Work.
• Must be able to pass background check.