RN - Brookfield Pain Clinic/Pewaukee PreOp - (Pool)

Description

The Pre Op/ PACU Nurse works in conjunction with the Doctor/Surgeon to perform the duties required for pre-operative and PACU post-operative care of our orthopedic patients. Under minimum supervision, the Pre Op/PACU Nurse provides efficient patient services and adheres to all policies and procedures of the facility. Travel as assigned to satellite locations, and basic computer knowledge.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Exceptional attention to detail and follow-through skills
• Ability to multitask, keep information confidential, provide high-quality service, act as a team player, build trust, and treat others with respect
• Exceptional communication, organizational, memory, and timely decision-making skills
• Show empathy and patience and remain composed under pressure or during high-volume times

Key Areas of Responsibility

General RN Responsibilities

• Demonstrate current comprehensive knowledge and skills related to nursing standards
• Demonstrate courtesy and helpfulness toward patients, families, coworkers, and others
• Use layperson's language to improve patient understanding
• Handle complaints responsively and professionally
• Maintain awareness of current policies and procedures affecting job responsibilities
• Maintain confidentiality of patient and proprietary information
• Maintain required professional licensure and certifications
• Ensure professional appearance and conduct with patients and coworkers
• Observe all safety precautions and comply with health and safety rules
• Participate in quality assurance monitoring and improvement initiatives
• Respond to requests from other departments positively and collaboratively
• Suggest methods to increase quality, efficiency, and prevent errors
• Demonstrate receptiveness to feedback and the opinions of others
• Find additional ways to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of operations

Pre-Op Responsibilities

• Assess the patient: review medical history, allergies, medications, and take vital signs
• Verify everything: confirm patient identity, procedure, and ensure consents are signed
• Give pre-op meds: administer medications as ordered and follow fasting (NPO) guidelines
• Educate and reassure: explain the procedure, answer questions, and ease patient anxiety
• Communicate with the team: report concerns and ensure everything's ready for surgery
• Responsible for planning, organizing, and implementing the preadmission process
• Ensure all pre-admission steps and requirements are completed promptly, including documentation for add-on cases
• Ensure smooth, timely, and efficient telephone communication, including contacting patients 1–2 weeks before procedure
• Handle communications from physician offices to accurately inform patients of requirements before the date of surgery
• Interact with departments and the physician's office staff regarding pre-operative scheduling processes
• Demonstrate understanding of patient needs according to diagnosis, including determining single, multiple, or complex scheduling needs
• Provide appropriate preparatory education and instructions to patients and families
• Demonstrate good time management skills and prioritize patient calls
• Listen to patient concerns and gather accurate information while remaining focused on the pre-admission process

PACU Responsibilities

• Perform a variety of duties in the PACU environment during the evaluation, treatment planning, management, and discharge of patients in the Ambulatory Surgical setting
• Monitoring vital signs: closely monitor heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and respiration
• Pain management: patients receive medications and comfort care for pain or nausea
• Airway management: staff ensure that the patient's airway remains open and breathing is stable
• Recovery from anesthesia: patients are observed until they regain consciousness and are stable enough for discharge
• Assess patient status and identify everyone's needs relative to his or her situation
• Complete patient charting accurately, concisely, and promptly
• Ensure patient records are complete and free from deficiencies or errors
• Demonstrate active listening and clear communication with patients and families
• Answer patient questions, address concerns, and reassure anxious patients
• Identify patients with special needs and assist in resolving or accommodating them
• Respond to requests from other areas in a timely, positive, and professional manner
• Follow through on tasks, job procedures, and patient care responsibilities

Requirements

• Graduate of an accredited Nursing Program
• Current State Licensure/Certification
• Minimum two years' experience in ER, ICU, or PACU required
• ACLS/PALS required or obtained within one year of hire
• ASC experience is a plus but not required
• Orthopedic experience preferred
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and IV skills
• Teamwork and flexibility are necessary to meet the needs of our patients and team members
• Ability to multitask and be a self-starter in a fast-paced environment
• Possess skills necessary to admit pre-operative day surgical patients, manage immediate PACU patients, and provide discharge teaching