PACU RN

ATC & CareBuilders - Parent Account; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare services provider is seeking a skilled PACU RN to provide compassionate care immediately following surgical procedures. This role includes monitoring vital signs, managing anesthesia recovery, and administering IV pain management. Candidates must be licensed RNs in Virginia, with BLS and ACLS certifications; previous experience in PACU, ICU, or Emergency Room is preferred. The position emphasizes critical thinking and collaboration with surgical teams for optimal patient safety and discharge planning.

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited Registered Nursing program; BSN preferred.
• Current RN license in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
• BLS and ACLS certification required.
• Previous PACU, ICU, or Emergency Room experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and record vital signs and consciousness post-anesthesia.
• Manage patient emergence from sedation, including reversal of anesthetic agents.
• Administer IV pain management and monitor for complications.
• Document patient status and care plans accurately.
• Work closely with anesthesiologists and surgeons for comprehensive care.
• Provide post-operative instructions to patients and families.

Skills

Critical thinking

Rapid assessment skills

Airway management

Intravenous insertion

Communication skills

Patient advocacy

Education

Graduate of an accredited Registered Nursing program; BSN preferred

Current RN license in Virginia

BLS and ACLS certification

Job description

The PACU RN provides skilled, compassionate care to patients immediately following surgical procedures. This role is responsible for recovering patients from anesthesia, monitoring for complications, and providing high-quality care, ensuring patient safety and stability before transfer to an inpatient unit or discharge.

Key Responsibilities

• Patient Assessment & Monitoring:Monitor and record vital signs, level of consciousness, and airway patency in the immediate post-anesthesia phase.
• Anesthesia Recovery:Manage patient emergence from sedation, including the reversal of anesthetic agents and monitoring for complications (nausea, pain, respiratory distress).
• Pain & Symptom Management:Administer medications, including IV pain management, to ensure comfort.
• Critical Thinking:Identify post-operative complications promptly and initiate appropriate interventions.
• Documentation:Accurately document patient status, interventions, and care plans within the electronic health record.
• Collaboration:Work closely with anesthesiologists, surgeons, and nurses to provide comprehensive care.
• Family Education:Provide clear post-operative instructions to patients and their family members upon discharge.

Qualifications

• Education:Graduate of an accredited Registered Nursing program; BSN preferred.
• Licensure:Current RN license in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
• Certifications: BLS (Basic Life Support) and ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support) required.
• Experience:Previous PACU, ICU, or Emergency Room experience is strongly preferred.

Required Skills

• Strong critical thinking and rapid assessment skills.
• Proficiency in airway management and intravenous insertion.
• Excellent communication skills for patient care and teamwork.
• Commitment to safety and patient advocacy.

Equal Opportunity Employer: ATC Healthcare Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regards to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status or any other category protected by Federal, State or local law. M/F/D/V EOE