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:  

This position requires exceptional attention to detail and follow-through skills. Must be able to: multitask, keep information confidential, provide high-quality service, act as a team player, build trust, and treat others with respect. Must have exceptional communication, organizational, memory, and timely decision-making skills. Must show empathy and patience and remain composed under pressure or during high-volume times, as appropriate.

Key Areas of Responsibility:

General RN Responsibilities

• Demonstrates current comprehensive knowledge and skills related to nursing standards.
• Demonstrates courtesy and helpfulness toward patients, families, coworkers, and others.
• Use layperson’s language to improve patient understanding.
• Handles complaints responsively and professionally.
• Maintains awareness of current policies and procedures affecting job responsibilities.
• Maintains confidentiality of patient and proprietary information.
• Maintains required professional licensure and certifications.
• Ensures professional appearance and conduct with patients and coworkers.
• Observes all safety precautions and complies with health and safety rules.
• Participate in quality assurance monitoring and improvement initiatives.
• Responds to requests from other departments positively and collaboratively.
• Suggests methods to increase quality, efficiency, and prevent errors.
• Demonstrates receptiveness to feedback and the opinions of others.
• Finds 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.
• Ensures smooth, timely, and efficient telephone communication, including contacting patients 1–2 weeks before procedure.
• Handles communications from physician offices to accurately inform patients of requirements before the date of surgery.
• Interacts with departments and the physician's office staff regarding pre-operative scheduling processes.
• Demonstrates understanding of patient needs according to diagnosis, including determining single, multiple, or complex scheduling needs.
• Provides appropriate preparatory education and instructions to patients and families.
• Demonstrates good time management skills and prioritizes patient calls.
• Listens to patient concerns and gathers accurate information while remaining focused on the pre-admission process.

PACU Responsibilities

• Performs 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: Nurses 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
• Assesses patient status and identifies everyone’s needs relative to his or her situation
• Completes patient charting accurately, concisely, and promptly.
• Ensure patient records are complete and free from deficiencies or errors.
• Demonstrates active listening and clear communication with patients and families.
• Answers patient questions, addresses concerns, and reassures anxious patients.
• Identifies patients with special needs and assists in resolving or accommodating them.
• Responds to requests from other areas in a timely, positive, and professional manner.
• Follows through on tasks, job procedures, and patient care responsibilities.

• 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.
• Must have 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.