RN Preop/PACU Per Diem Northwest Tucson Surgery Center

Community Health Systems; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 35,000 - 60,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Tuition reimbursement

Student loan repayment

Flexible scheduling

Job summary

The Northwest Medical Center in Tucson, AZ is seeking an experienced PreOp/PACU RN for our busy outpatient surgery center. This role supports pre- and post-operative patient care, collaborating with the surgical team to ensure safe, efficient recovery.

Ideal candidates have 1–2 years in clinical nursing with PACU experience preferred; BLS, ACLS, and PALS certifications are required. Part-time schedule with a comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for professional development are

Qualifications

• 1–2 years of experience in a clinical nursing role in an acute care setting.
• RN licensure in good standing.
• BCLS, ACLS, and PALS certifications required.

Responsibilities

• Provide pre- and post-operative nursing care per physician orders.
• Assess, plan, implement and document patient care.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary team to ensure patient safety and comfort.
• Administer medications and monitor side effects.
• Maintain infection control and patient safety standards.
• Educate patients and families on post-op care and discharge instructions.

Skills

PACU nursing

Patient assessment

Team collaboration

Critical thinking

Education

RN licensure

Tools

IV pumps

Monitors

Ventilators

CPR equipment

Job description

Tucson, AZ, United States

Job Description

Outstanding opportunity for an experienced PreOp / PACU nurse in our busy outpatient Northwest Tucson Surgery Center located on the Northwest Medical Center campus.

Preferred candidates should have at least 1 year experience as an RN , 2 years PACU experience highly preferred.

What we offer:

Our nurses enjoy a robust benefits package including health insurance, flexible scheduling, 100% licensure/certification renewal reimbursement, Tuition Reimbursement, and up to $20K for student loan payments.

We know it’s not just about finding a job. It’s about finding a place where you are respected, valued, and where your work is purposeful and fulfilling. A place where your talent is recognized, professional development is encouraged and career advancement is possible.

What you'll do:

Evaluates assigned patients and plans, implements and documents nursing care for the pre and post operative patient. Using critical skills and core knowledge of the surgical case, the RN anticipates the needs of the team and provides assistance to meet the needs of the patient.

Either directly or indirectly reporting to a nursing supervisor, plans, directs, participates in and evaluates patient care. Collaborates with other disciplines to provide optimal care.

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.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• 1-2 years of experience in a clinical nursing role 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 required
• PALS - Pediatric Advanced Life Support required
• Refer to facility or unit-specific guidelines for additional requirements.
  Northwest Medical Center (NMC) is a 287-bed hospital, Level III Trauma Center, Women's Center, and a large physician group, we offer you a variety of settings in which to work. Every location is dedicated to providing safe, quality patient care, but more than that is the commitment to employees. NMC provides a culture of teamwork, respect and appreciation for all staff, whether they care for patients directly or work in a support role. With employee appreciation celebrations throughout the year, opportunities for growth and the satisfaction that you are part of a hospital leading the way with accessible, convenient healthcare in Tucson, NMC is a great place to work. Accredited by The Joint Commission and is an equal opportunity employer: race, gender, disability and Veteran status, and VEVRAA Federal Contractor – priority referral Protected Veterans requested.

Job Info

• Job Identification 163698
• Job Category Nursing
• Posting Date 09/10/2026, 11:01 PM
• Job Schedule Part time
• Job Shift Day