Job Summary:
Plans, coordinates, and oversees care for patients of any age in the Pre-Op/PACU department. Provides care within nursing standards of practice and the policies of the Center. Makes decisions regarding direct patient care needs and communicates appropriate information to other team members. May have additional responsibilities as designated by the manager, including serving on committees, participating in quality improvement audits, and projects.
Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:
- Knows and adheres to policies of the Center and demonstrates fiscal responsibility.
- Follows policies, procedures, goals, and objectives for peri-operative nursing care according to accepted standards.
- Follows appropriate Pre-Op/Admitting policies and procedures.
- Plans, implements, and evaluates pre- and post-operative nursing care for patients based on individual needs and physician’s orders.
- Organizes and prepares medical records of patients. Documents care appropriately and fully. Follows up on missing data and other patient care needs.
- Maintains and demonstrates current skills and knowledge of intravenous therapy, medication administration and effects, patient assessment, airway maintenance, patient teaching, emotional/social support of patients and families, and other clinical competencies.
- Notes and follows physicians’ orders (surgeon’s and anesthesiologist’s).
- Documents vital signs, nurse’s notes, and drugs administered on the assessment record.
- Reviews discharge instructions and educates patient and/or responsible adult with appropriate information to alleviate fears and promote optimal post-op care at home.
- Remains calm and functions as a team member during stress and crisis situations.
- Seeks involvement in activities that promote professional growth and behavior.
- Participates in appropriate committee and CQI activities.
- Follows OSHA and other standards for protection against blood-borne pathogens.
- Uses good body mechanics.
- Informs Pre-Op/PACU Charge Nurse of applicable day-to-day situations.
- Attends and participates in staff meetings and development programs, including mandatory ones.
- Sets priorities to facilitate efficient patient flow throughout the day.
- Follows employee health and staffing policies.
- Assists with other duties as needed or assigned.
Required Skills and Qualifications:
- Licensure as a Registered Nurse in the State of Pennsylvania.
- Ability to stand and/or walk at least five hours a day.
- Ability to lift and/or carry over 20 pounds regularly.
- Ability to push/pull over 25 pounds regularly.
- Thorough knowledge of all phases of nursing, including OR procedures and anesthesia.
- Cooperative work attitude towards colleagues, management, patients, visitors, and physicians.
- Current BLS, ACLS, and PALS certifications. Certification required within 6 months if not currently certified. Maintain RQI per facility requirements.
Preferred experience includes at least one year in a peri-operative setting, demonstrating clinical competency, leadership, and teaching capabilities. Must be physically and emotionally capable of performing the responsibilities of the position.