RN - Pre-Op/Pacu - Full Time

Watson Clinic; Lakeland (FL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Watson Clinic is seeking an experienced Registered Nurse to oversee preoperative and postoperative care for ambulatory surgical patients. The role includes preparing patients, coordinating with anesthesia, and ensuring safe recovery in the PACU.

The ideal candidate holds an accredited RN degree, Florida RN license, and at least one year in PACU or critical care, with current CPR, ACLS and PALS certifications. Join a busy surgical unit with a strong patient‑safety focus.

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited School of Registered Nursing.
• Active Florida RN license.
• Minimum of One (1) year experience in PACU or Critical Care.
• Current CPR, ACLS and PALS certification.

Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, direct and evaluate the nursing care given to the surgical patient in preoperative and postoperative phases.
• Perform pre-admission assessments (phone or in person) and provide pre instructions.
• Prepare and organize environment, equipment and supplies for recovery and procedures.
• Monitor vital signs, EKG and PACU progress post-operatively and document appropriately.
• Administer medications, IVs and treatments and record dispensing; respond to adverse reactions.

Skills

PACU experience

CPR

ACLS

PALS

Education

RN degree from accredited school

Florida RN license

Job description

Full-time

Description

Essential Functions:

• Responsible for the planning, executing, directing and evaluating the nursing care given to the surgical patient by assuming the preoperative role. The role is defined as the pre-operative and the post-operative period. May have contact with the patient in each phase of the surgical experience. The responsibility includes the preparation, assembly and organization of the environment, equipment and supplies necessary to perform the activities necessary for the preparation and the recovery of the ambulatory surgical patient.
• Participates in the preparation of the patient for surgery. Performs the pre-admission assessment either over the telephone or in person. Provides pre instructions. Ascertains that all appropriate data is in the patient's record prior to admission or immediately following admission and prior to procedural intervention. Communicates abnormal and/or extensive medical history to the anesthesiologist as soon as discovered.
• Maintains communication with reception area and OR/Endoscopic rooms to assure efficient movement of patients. Assists with the preparation of medications for blocks and/or local injections. Admits the patient in the pre-op area and follows the admission protocols.
• Receives patient from OR/Endoscopic rooms and assesses patient's condition on admission and discharge, and documents on PACU records.
• Observes and monitors the post-op/procedure patient by taking vital signs, EKG and documenting patient's progress while in PACU.
• Administers medications, IV's and treatments; maintain records regarding dispensing of it; observes patient's reaction and acts appropriately in the event of adverse reactions.
• Performs/assists Physician in sterile and non-sterile dressing changes and other procedures as requested.
• Assures patient that he/she is not, and will not be, left alone in the Recovery Areas. Provides a summary of Post-op instructions to patient to discharge from the unit.
• Makes sure patient has follow-up appointment before being discharges; if ordered by the physician. Gives immediate respiratory assistance or support, including use of AMBU bag, airways, and endotracheal tubes; administers CPR; assists with defibrillation, and performs venipuncture, in emergency situations.
• Knows and maintains Code Blue/crash cart. Recognizes and utilizes safety precautions and procedures. Remains familiar with equipment and supplies, including function, location, and upkeep. Assists in restocking unit as needed. Maintain a comfortable, orderly, clear, safe environment in the Recovery Area.
• Performs other duties as deemed necessary.

Requirements

Requirements

Required Education and Experience: Graduate of an accredited School of Registered Nursing. Active Florida RN license. Minimum of One (1) year experience in PACU or Critical Care. Current CPR, ACLS and PALC certification.