PRN RN PACU

Lutheran Health Network; Fort Wayne (IN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Lutheran Health Network in Fort Wayne, IN is seeking a PRN RN for PACU to provide patient‑centered care following the nursing process. Shifts vary (8, 10 or 12 hours) with a monthly call rotation; RN responsibilities include coordinating care, administering meds, and collaborating with the care team.

The role requires 2+ years in PACU/ICU, valid RN licensure, and BCLS; ACLS/PALS/NRP are preferred. This position supports a fast-paced recovery unit open 24 hours.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of current RN experience in PACU or ICU.
• RN licensure in state or compact licensure.
• BCLS required; ACLS/PALS/NRP preferred.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and deliver high‑quality, patient‑centered care per nursing process.
• Assess patients thoroughly; document findings; report changes to care team.
• Provide age-appropriate care using knowledge of growth and development.
• Administer medications; monitor for side effects; document administration.
• Assist physicians during procedures within documented competency.
• Develop and evaluate individualized care plans with the team.
• Respond to medical emergencies; participate in CPR and code team activities.
• Educate patients and families; ensure post‑discharge instructions.
• Adhere to infection control protocols and maintain a safe environment.
• Operate and monitor medical equipment as needed for patient care.

Skills

Nursing process

Patient assessments

Medication administration

Communication

Documentation

Infection control

Education

RN licensure

BCLS

ACLS preferred

PALS preferred

NRP preferred

Job description

PRN (hours will vary with call, 8, 10 or 12 hour shifts)

PACU

16 Bays Plus 1 Isolation Room

Recovery Room - Open 24 hours

Call Rotation is once per month (11a-7p)

2+ years of current RN experience in PACU or ICU

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 responds to any post-operative complications.
  • Administers medications, including pain relievers and other post‑operative medications, as prescribed.
  • Regulates intravenous (IV) fluids and monitors fluid balance.
  • Checks and changes dressings on surgical wounds.
  • Ensures a clear airway and provides 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
• ACLS - 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.