RN Pre-Op/PACU

Merit Health Wesley; Hattiesburg (MS); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Paid time off (vacation/holidays/illn.

Comprehensive health insurance

401(k) retirement plan

Education assistance

Life and disability insurance

Flexible spending accounts

Professional development

Job summary

Merit Health Wesley in Hattiesburg, MS seeks an RN PACU professional to provide patient-centered care in the post-anesthesia setting. You will assess, monitor, and support patients recovering from anesthesia, coordinating with surgeons, anesthesia teams, and nursing staff to ensure safe, effective recovery.

The role requires an RN license and BCLS; ACLS/PALS/NRP are preferred. This is a full-time, on-site position offering comprehensive benefits and opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• RN licensure and active state nursing license required or eligible.
• Basic Life Support (BCLS) certification required; ACLS/PALS/NRP preferred.
• Strong nursing knowledge, infection control, and patient safety focus.

Responsibilities

• Provide patient-centered care using the nursing process to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate.
• Coordinate with physicians, nurses, and teams to deliver high-quality care.
• Monitor patients post-anesthesia, manage pain, and support recovery.
• Document care thoroughly and comply with safety and regulatory standards.

Skills

Nursing assessments

Patient-centered care

Medication administration

Infection control

Team collaboration

Documentation

CPR/code team participation

Education

RN licensure

BCLS certification

ACLS (preferred)

PALS (preferred)

NRP (preferred)

Job description

Why Merit Health?

Choosing a career is about more than finding a job, it's about joining a team where you are respected, valued, and supported. At Merit Health, your work has a meaningful impact, your contributions are recognized, and your professional growth is encouraged. Our team members are dedicated to providing exceptional patient care and making a difference in the communities we serve. In return, we offer a supportive work environment, opportunities for career advancement, and a competitive benefits package that may include:

• Competitive compensation
• Paid time off for vacation, holidays, and illness
• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage)
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Education assistance and student loan support
• Life and disability insurance
• Flexible spending accounts
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth

Join a Team That Cares

Across our Merit Health facilities, we are committed to creating a culture where employees can thrive while delivering quality care close to home. Whether you're just starting your career or bringing years of experience, you'll find opportunities to grow, make an impact, and be part of a team that values compassion, collaboration, and excellence.

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 respond to any post-operative complications.
• Administers medications, including pain relievers and other post-operative medications, as prescribed.
• Regulates intravenous (IV) fluids and monitor fluid balance.
• Checks and changes dressings on surgical wounds.
• Ensures a clear airway and provide oxygen support as needed.
• Educates patients and families about post-surgery care, potential complications, and discharge instructions.

Qualifications

• 0-2 years of experience in a clinical nursing role or student clinical rotations in an acute care setting required

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.

This position is not eligible for immigration sponsorship now or in the future Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. for any employer.

INDNUR