PACU Registered Nurse Part-time Days

Lutheran Health Network; Fort Wayne (IN); On-site; USD 41,000 - 69,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental & vision benefits

Sign On Bonus

401K with 50% match up to 6%

PTO & EIB

Job summary

Lutheran Health Network is seeking a part-time PACU RN in Fort Wayne, IN. The role covers day shifts (9:30–18:00), with a 0.5 FTE schedule across weeks, and includes call and holiday call responsibilities.

The RN will coordinate and deliver patient-centered care, monitor post-anesthesia patients, and collaborate with physicians and the care team to ensure safe recovery and discharge planning.

Qualifications

• RN license in Indiana is required.
• BCLS certification required.
• ACLS/PALS/NRP preferred.
• PACU experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Coordinates and delivers high-quality, patient-centered care per nursing process.
• Performs thorough patient assessments and documents findings.
• Administers prescribed medications and monitors for side effects.
• Assists physicians during procedures within competency.
• Develops and evaluates individualized care plans with the team.
• Responds to emergencies and participates in CPR/code team as needed.
• Educates patients and families about post-discharge care and follow-up.

Skills

Patient Care

Critical Care

Effective Communication

Team Collaboration

Education

RN License

BCLS Certification

ACLS Certification

PALS Certification

NRP Certification

Tools

IV Pumps

Monitors

Ventilators

Job description

Part-time (.5 FTE) Days - 0930-1800, 3 days one week, 2 days the other week, no weekends but there is call & holiday call

PACU (PACU or Critical Care Experience)

16 Bays Plus 1 Isolation Room

Recovery Room (open 24 hours)

Call: Once a month

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, & Vision benefits starting the first month after hire
• Sign On Bonus
• 401K with 50% match up to 6%
• PTO & EIB

Job Summary

The Registered Nurse (RN) provides patient-centered care through the nursing process of assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. This role is responsible for coordinating and delivering high-quality care based on established clinical protocols and physician/provider orders. The RN collaborates with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure effective patient care and desired outcomes, while maintaining a supportive and compassionate environment for patients and their families.

Essential Functions

• Coordinates and delivers high-quality, patient-centered care in accordance with organizational policies, protocols, and the nursing process.
• Conducts thorough patient assessments and documents findings accurately, reporting changes in condition to the appropriate care team members.
• Utilizes knowledge of human growth and development to provide age-appropriate care and education.
• Administers prescribed medications, monitors for side effects, and documents administration in accordance with standards of practice.
• Assists physicians during procedures within the scope of documented competency and skill level.
• Collaborates with the healthcare team to develop, implement, and evaluate individualized care plans based on patient assessments and needs.
• Responds to medical emergencies and participates in life-saving interventions, such as CPR and code team activities, as appropriate.
• Advocates for the rights and needs of patients, ensuring their voices are heard and respected in care planning and delivery.
• Provides patient and family education on medical conditions, treatment plans, and post-discharge care, ensuring understanding and adherence to instructions.
• Implements and adheres to infection control protocols to prevent the spread of healthcare-associated infections.
• Monitors and operates medical equipment (e.g., IV pumps, monitors, ventilators) as needed for patient care and safety.
• Promotes patient safety by adhering to National Patient Safety Goals and maintaining a clean, safe environment for patients and staff.
• Participates in audits, chart reviews, and compliance checks to ensure adherence to standards of practice and regulatory requirements.
• Demonstrates responsible decision-making in planning, delegating, and providing care based on patient needs and organizational policies.
• Documents patient care and education thoroughly and promptly in the medical record.
• Engages in professional development to maintain clinical competency and understanding of current nursing standards and regulations.
• Participates in performance improvement initiatives, including data collection and process development, to enhance patient outcomes and care delivery.
• PACU RN:
  • Assesses the patient's level of consciousness and responsiveness as they wake up from anesthesia.
  • Evaluates pain levels and administers pain medications as prescribed.
  • Observes any side effects of anesthesia, such as nausea, vomiting, shivering, or muscle aches.
  • Monitors for and respond to any post-operative complications.
  • Administers medications, including pain relievers and other post-operative medications, as prescribed.
  • Regulates intravenous (IV) fluids and monitor fluid balance.
  • Checks and changes dressings on surgical wounds.
  • Ensures a clear airway and provide oxygen support as needed.
  • Educates patients and families about post-surgery care, potential complications, and discharge instructions.

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Strong knowledge of the nursing process and clinical nursing practices.
• Ability to perform thorough patient assessments and communicate findings effectively.
• Proficient in administering medications and monitoring for side effects.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in documenting patient care.
• Knowledge of safety standards, infection control, and quality improvement initiatives.

Licenses and Certifications

• RN - Registered Nurse - State Licensure and/or Compact State Licensure required
• BCLS - Basic Life Support required
• ACL S - Advanced Cardiac Life Support preferred
• PALS - Pediatric Advanced Life Support preferred
• NRP - Neonatal Resuscitation preferred
• Refer to facility or unit-specific guidelines for additional requirements.