Registered Nurse - PACU - Per Diem - Somerset, NJ

University Center for Ambulatory Surgery, LLC; Franklin Township (NJ); On-site; USD 74,000 - 77,000; Full time

Job summary

University Center for Ambulatory Surgery, LLC is seeking a Registered Nurse to support the PACU per diem team in Somerset, NJ. The role emphasizes vigilant postoperative monitoring, pain management, and timely interventions to ensure safe recovery.

The ideal candidate holds an active NJ RN license, BLS and ACLS, and has perioperative or critical care nursing experience. Strong communication with surgeons and anesthesiologists is essential for patient safety and successful transitions.

Qualifications

• Current and valid RN license in New Jersey.
• Nursing degree from an accredited program (ADN/BSN).
• BLS and ACLS certifications.
• Perioperative or critical care nursing experience.
• CPAN/CAPA certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Monitor vitals, airway, and consciousness continuously in the immediate postoperative period.
• Administer medications and pain management interventions as prescribed, adjusting care plans as needed.
• Assess and manage postoperative complications such as respiratory distress, bleeding, nausea, and pain.
• Document patient status, interventions, and progress in medical records.
• Communicate with surgical teams, anesthesiologists, and family members about patient condition and care plans.
• Prepare patients for transfer to inpatient units or discharge, and educate patients and families on postoperative care.
• Maintain a safe, clean PACU environment adhering to infection control and safety protocols.

Skills

RN license

BLS certification

ACLS certification

Perioperative/critical care

EHR experience

Pain management

Education

Associate's or Bachelor's in Nursing

Tools

Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Registered Nurse - PACU - Per Diem - Somerset, NJ

Franklin Township, NJ, US

Salary Range: $54.00 To $56.00 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.