A PACU Registered Nurse cares for patients as they recover from surgery and anesthesia. Works in hospital recovery rooms, monitoring and caring for post-operative patients, and communicating with patients' family members. Works under the supervision of a physician or other specialist, as part of a PACU nursing team.
Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in Louisiana.
Experience:
Minimum 1 year of acute care RN experience, preferably in pre-op, PACU, or surgical/medical-surgical settings BLS (Basic Life Support) - required ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) - required or must obtain within 3 months of hire Physical & Work Environment Requirements Fast-paced environment requiring rapid assessment and decision-making skills Responsibilities Pre-Operative Care Conduct pre-operative assessments including medical history, medication review, allergies, and vital signs Ensure proper documentation, consent verification, and patient readiness for surgery Provide patient and family education regarding surgical procedures, anesthesia, and recovery expectations Collaborate with surgeons, CRNA, and OR staff to optimize surgical preparation Post-Operative Care (PACU / Surgical Unit) Monitor patients emerging from anesthesia, assessing respiratory status, pain levels, surgical site condition, and vitals Recognize and respond to complications such as airway obstruction, bleeding, or abnormal vital signs Provide emotional support and education to patients and families during recovery Document assessments, interventions, and patient responses in the electronic health record accurately and promptly General Responsibilities Communicate effectively with the interdisciplinary team to coordinate care and ensure continuity Maintain a safe and clean environment adhering to infection control and hospital protocols Frequent standing, walking, bending, and moving during 8-hour shifts Exposure to surgical patients, medications, blood/body fluids, and medical equipment
