PACU

Asa Healthcare Staffing; New Orleans (LA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare staffing company is seeking an experienced Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) Registered Nurse to join their perioperative care team in New Orleans, Louisiana. The PACU RN will provide intensive nursing care to patients recovering from anesthesia following surgical procedures, requiring advanced assessment skills and effective communication with patients and team members. This role includes monitoring vital signs, managing pain control, and ensuring patient safety and comfort during recovery.

Qualifications

• Experience in post-anesthesia care or critical care is preferred.
• Strong communication skills with patients and families.
• Ability to collaborate with diverse healthcare teams.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and assess patients recovering from anesthesia.
• Recognize and respond to post-anesthesia complications.
• Administer medications according to provider orders.
• Collaborate with anesthesiologists and surgeons.
• Educate patients and families on post-procedure care.

Skills

Advanced assessment skills

Rapid decision-making

Calm under pressure

Education

Registered Nurse License

Job description

We are seeking an experienced and compassionate Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) Registered Nurse to join our perioperative care team. The PACU RN is responsible for providing intensive nursing care to patients recovering from anesthesia following surgical procedures. This role requires advanced assessment skills, rapid decision-making, and a calm, focused approach in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Monitor and assess patients as they recover from anesthesia, ensuring stable vital signs, airway management, and pain control.

Recognize and respond to post-anesthesia complications such as respiratory distress, hypotension, nausea, or changes in consciousness.

Administer medications, including pain management and antiemetics, per provider orders and facility protocols.

Collaborate with anesthesiologists, surgeons, and other team members to ensure safe transitions between phases of care.

Provide clear communication and hand-off reports to surgical, inpatient, or discharge teams.

Educate patients and families on post-procedure care, discharge instructions, and follow-up.

Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the electronic health record (EHR).

Ensure infection control, patient privacy, and safety measures are always followed.