Pre-op/PACU RN

JOB SUMMARY

To act as patient advocate, providing continuity of care designed to meet individual patient needs through collaboration with other members of the health care team at the Center. Supports the philosophy, objectives and goals of the Center. The Pre-op/PACU nurse will ensure quality care to the individual patients pre-operatively & in recovery including, but not limited to geriatric, adult, pediatric and adolescent patients.

Reports to: Director of Nursing

Supervises: None

QUALIFICATIONS

Licensure as Registered Nurse in the State of Michigan.

Current CPR and ACLS certification

Demonstrates ability to stand and/or walk at least five hours per day

Demonstrates ability to lift and/or carry over 20 pounds on a regular basis

Demonstrates ability to push/pull over 25 pounds on a regular basis

Demonstrates cooperative work attitude toward and with co-employees, management, patients, visitors and physicians.

OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE

Category I exposure to bloodborne pathogens, frequent exposure to chemical hazards.

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Duties of POHA/PACU RN opening for the day include:

1.1 Unlock doors in facility as needed.

1.2 Sync’s the LifeScan glucose machine with computer.

1.3 Check crash cart and O2 tank.

1.4 Restock refrigerator with fluid supply.

1.5 Readies the area to receive patients.

1.6 Count narcotics with another nurse and replenish supply, as necessary.

2. Assesses physical and emotional needs of patients and implements appropriate

nursing interventions. Include confirmation of the following information:

2.1 Allergies

2.2 Medications taken at home

2.3 Dentures, contacts or glasses

2.4 Pertinent medical conditions

2.5 Pertinent past medical history

2.6 Confirmation of consent and operative side

2.7 Confirmation of responsible party

3. Assesses or performs the following:

3.1 Puts all patients on the monitor, including blood pressure

3.2 Temperature

3.3 Weight and height

3.4 Accucheck for blood sugar, if applicable

3.5 Pregnancy test, if applicable

3.6 Start IV on all patients, except those who have an order not to start an IV. Utilizes anesthesia protocol regarding IV fluids and catheter size.

3.7 Pain

4. Respects the patient right to privacy, dignity and confidentiality.

5. Assists the patient to undress, if patient needs assistance, and gives locker key to

the patient’s family.

6. Follows appropriate Pre-Op/Admitting/Recovery policies and procedures.

7. Performs instruction and explanation according to facility policy and procedure.

7.1 Provides instruction and explanation of patient rights and responsibilities.

7.2 Describes the perioperative experience to the patient and the participation

of the significant other, including what to expect before, during and after the procedure.

7.3 Contacts all patients the day prior to surgery. Reviews health history and

procedure to be performed. Provides all required instructions applicable to the procedure being performed. Gives patient time to arrive at the Center and start time of procedure.

7.4 Completes the nursing assessment records.

7.5 Notifies anesthesia of next day’s OR schedule. Reviews with the anesthesiologist health histories of any scheduled admissions that do not meet the Center’s admission criteria.

7.6 Reviews or takes physician orders prior to the day of admission. Monitors that orders or preoperative testing requests from either the admitting physician or the anesthesiologist have been received prior to the day of admission.

7.7 Assesses the current pain level of the patient and measures that the patient is using to assist them in the pain control.

8. Assists with nerve blocks performed by anesthesiologist.

9. Ensures that patients are seen by the anesthesiologist prior to being taken to the

OR .

10. Post‑operative care of the surgical patient includes:

9.1 Airway maintenance.

9.2 Stabilization of vital signs.

9.3 Safe emergence from anesthesia.

9.4 Control of pain and nausea by administration of drugs.

9.5 Orientation to surroundings.

9.6 Administration of special equipment (i.e., ice bags, post-op shoes, slings).

9.7 Offer nourishments.

9.8 Provide a safe environment for patient care.

11. Reviews discharge instructions & educates patient and /or responsible adult with

appropriate information to alleviate fears and maintain optimal care in the home

environment.

12. Obtains discharge order from anesthesiologist or surgeon prior to discharge.

13. Cleans gurneys after each patient and restocks supplies.

14. Follows proper procedures regarding exposure to Category I tasks.

15. Follows proper procedures for handling hazardous waste materials.

16. Is knowledgeable about and responsive to emergency situations, i.e. cardiac

arrest, malignant hyperthermia, drug reaction, fire, disaster etc.

17. Reports and completes appropriate forms for incidents related to patients, visitors,

and employees.

18. Attends and participates in staff meetings and staff development programs,

including mandatory ones.

19. Participates in CQI process and activities.

20. Assists with all other duties as the need arises or as assigned.

21. Sets priorities to facilitate the timely and efficient flow of patients throughout the

day.

22. Prepares and restocks all areas for the following day.

23. Just prior to leaving, does the following:

23.1 Re‑verifies narcotic count.

23.2 Locks drug cupboards.

23.3 Deposit keys in locked box.

23.4 Turns off all appliances.

23.5 Locks back door.

23.6 Secures medical charts; prescription pads, and log book.

23.7 Closes supply closet door.

23.8 Logs off computer and turns power off.

23.9 Turns off all lights.

Job Type: Part-time

Expected hours: 26 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Life insurance
• Paid time off

Medical specialties:

• Medical-Surgical
• Perioperative Care
• Surgery

Physical setting:

• Ambulatory surgery center

Standard shift:

• Day shift

Supplemental pay types:

• Bonus opportunities

Weekly schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Ability to Relocate:

• Saginaw, MI 48604: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person