Registered Nurse - PACU - Full Time - Somerset, NJ

Sovereign Health System; Franklin Township (NJ); On-site; USD 69,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

Sovereign Health System in Somerset, NJ seeks an experienced Registered Nurse - PACU to provide immediate postoperative care, monitor vitals, manage pain, and coordinate with surgical teams. The role emphasizes patient safety, rapid response to complications, and clear communication with families.

Candidates should be eligible for NJ RN license, have BLS and ACLS, and a perioperative background. This is a full-time, on-site position in Franklin Township.

Qualifications

• Current and valid RN license in NJ.
• Accredited nursing program (ASN or BSN).
• BLS certification required.
• ACLS certification preferred.
• Experience in perioperative or critical care nursing preferred.

Responsibilities

• Monitor vitals, airway status, and consciousness in PACU.
• Administer meds and pain management as prescribed.
• Assess and manage postoperative complications.
• Document patient status and progress in medical records.
• Communicate with surgical teams and families about plan of care.
• Prepare patients for transfer or discharge ensuring stability.

Skills

Clinical assessment

Critical thinking

Communication

Organization

Education

Registered Nurse license (NJ)

Associate's or Bachelor's in Nursing

BLS certification

ACLS certification

Perioperative nursing experience

Tools

EHR systems

Job description

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Registered Nurse - PACU - Full Time - Somerset, NJ

Full Time Franklin Township, NJ, US

Salary Range: $50.00 To $52.00 Hourly

About the Role:

The PACU Nurse plays a critical role in the immediate postoperative care of patients recovering from anesthesia following surgical procedures. This position requires vigilant monitoring of patients' vital signs, pain levels, and overall condition to ensure safe and effective recovery in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit. The nurse collaborates closely with anesthesiologists, surgeons, and other healthcare professionals to manage complications and provide timely interventions. The ultimate goal is to stabilize patients and prepare them for transfer to appropriate care settings, whether that be discharge, inpatient units, or intensive care. This role demands a high level of clinical expertise, critical thinking, and compassionate patient care to optimize recovery outcomes and patient safety.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Current and valid Registered Nurse (RN) license in New Jersey.
• Completion of an accredited nursing program (Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Nursing).
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
• Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification.
• Experience or clinical exposure in perioperative or critical care nursing.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification in Post Anesthesia Nursing (CPAN) or Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CAPA).
• Experience with electronic health record (EHR) systems.
• Strong background in pain management and patient education.

Responsibilities:

• Monitor patients’ vital signs, airway status, and level of consciousness continuously during the immediate postoperative period.
• Administer medications and pain management interventions as prescribed, adjusting care plans based on patient response.
• Assess and manage postoperative complications such as respiratory distress, bleeding, nausea, and pain.
• Document patient status, interventions, and progress accurately and promptly in medical records.
• Communicate effectively with surgical teams, anesthesiologists, and family members regarding patient condition and care plans.
• Prepare patients for transfer to inpatient units or discharge by ensuring stability and educating patients and families on postoperative care.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized PACU environment adhering to infection control and safety protocols.

Skills:

The PACU Nurse utilizes strong clinical assessment skills daily to monitor and interpret patients' vital signs and neurological status, enabling early detection of complications. Effective communication skills are essential for coordinating care with multidisciplinary teams and providing clear explanations to patients and families. Critical thinking and quick decision-making are applied when responding to emergencies or changes in patient condition. Technical skills are used to administer medications, manage airway devices, and operate monitoring equipment accurately. Additionally, organizational skills help maintain thorough documentation and ensure a safe, efficient care environment.