Pre-Op/PACU RN

MedHQ; Santa Barbara (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

MedHQ in Santa Barbara, CA is seeking a Pre-Op/PACU Registered Nurse to provide comprehensive care for surgical patients across preoperative and postoperative phases, assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating individualized care in a safe, efficient environment.

The RN will deliver high-quality post-anesthesia care, advocate for patients, collaborate with perioperative teams, ensure discharge readiness, and adhere to HIPAA and safety protocols in a fast-paced setting.

Qualifications

• Active RN license and current BLS; ACLS/PALS as applicable.
• Strong perioperative and PACU nursing knowledge.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Assess patients’ physical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs.
• Review charts, labs, EKGs, and results to inform care.
• Develop and implement individualized pre- and post-operative care plans.
• Deliver nursing care in line with plans while maintaining safety.
• Document care accurately and maintain HIPAA compliance.
• Collaborate with perioperative staff and OR as needed.
• Monitor patient responses and adjust plans to achieve outcomes.
• Ensure discharge readiness and provide family education.

Skills

Perioperative nursing

Patient assessment

Communication

Infection control

Education

Registered Nurse (RN) license

BLS Certification

ACLS/PALS as applicable

Job description

Position Summary

The Pre-Op/PACU Registered Nurse provides comprehensive nursing care to surgical patients in both the preoperative and postoperative phases. This role is responsible for assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating individualized patient care while ensuring a safe, efficient, and compassionate environment.

The RN delivers high-quality care in the immediate post-anesthesia period, utilizing clinical expertise and critical thinking to promote patient recovery, safety, and comfort. This position supports the center’s policies, procedures, and nursing philosophy while serving as a patient advocate throughout the surgical experience.

Key Responsibilities

Patient Assessment

• Evaluate patients’ physical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs through observation and interaction
• Review patient charts, labs, EKGs, and diagnostic results
• Collaborate with perioperative staff to ensure continuity of care

Care Planning

• Develop individualized care plans to support safe and effective pre- and post-operative care
• Identify patient needs, set goals, and communicate plans with care team
• Ensure discharge readiness, including instructions and responsible adult accompaniment

Care Implementation

• Deliver nursing care based on established plans and patient needs
• Maintain infection control and safety standards
• Utilize equipment and resources efficiently while maintaining quality care
• Accurately document patient care and clinical findings
• Apply sound clinical judgment in all patient interactions

Evaluation & Outcomes

• Monitor and evaluate patient responses to care
• Adjust care plans as needed to achieve desired outcomes
• Participate in ongoing professional development

Communication & Team Collaboration

• Maintain clear, professional communication with patients, families, and staff
• Support a collaborative team environment and share workload responsibilities
• Escalate concerns and seek guidance when needed

Accountability & Compliance

• Adhere to all regulatory, safety, and HIPAA requirements
• Maintain patient confidentiality at all times
• Act as a patient advocate throughout the surgical process
• Report incidents, safety concerns, or unusual events per protocol
• Maintain knowledge of emergency equipment, medications, and procedures
• Ensure emergency equipment is functional and readily available

Qualifications

• Active Registered Nurse (RN) license
• Current BLS certification required; ACLS and PALS as applicable
• Strong clinical knowledge of perioperative and post-anesthesia care
• Ability to interpret diagnostic tests and respond to patient needs
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced surgical environment
• Willingness to assist in the OR as needed

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds independently
• Ability to assist with patient movement and transport (wheelchairs, gurneys)
• Must be able to stand, walk, and perform clinical duties for extended periods

Additional Requirements

• Flexibility to meet scheduling needs, including overtime when necessary
• Commitment to maintaining a safe, compliant, and patient-centered environment