RN Pre-Op / PACU

Accessibility Note

Pre-Operative Registered Nurse (RN)

Position Summary

The Pre-Operative Registered Nurse (RN) is responsible for providing comprehensive nursing care to patients in an ambulatory surgery setting. This role assumes accountability for patient care in accordance with physician orders, professional nursing standards, and facility policies. The Pre-Op RN ensures patients are appropriately prepared for surgery, coordinates pre-operative requirements, and supports safe, efficient patient care throughout the pre-surgical process.

Reports To: Administrator

Education & Experience

• Graduate of an accredited School of Nursing
• Current Registered Nurse (RN) License
• Current American Heart Association (AHA) BLS Certification
• Current American Heart Association (AHA) ACLS Certification

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Patient Assessment & Care

• Assess, develop, implement, and evaluate nursing care for pre-operative patients.
• Record and report symptoms, reactions, abnormalities, and changes in patients' physical and/or mental condition.
• Administer medications and treatments as ordered by the physician.
• Care for and prepare pre-operative patients according to facility policies and procedures.
• Provide psychological support to patients and their families.

Pre-Operative Coordination

• Review patient charts for accuracy, completeness, and required documentation.
• Verify surgical consents are completed accurately and match physician orders and the operating room schedule.
• Confirm all required pre-operative testing and documentation are available, including:
• Laboratory results
• Chest X-rays
• EKGs
• History & Physical (H&P)
• Report abnormal findings to the surgeon and/or anesthesiologist prior to the scheduled surgery date.
• Communicate pertinent pre-operative information to the Operating Room (OR) nurse.
• Obtain, label, and secure patient belongings.
• Assist patients with proper surgical attire and preparation.
• Complete all required registration forms and pre-operative documentation.

Medication Administration

• Administer prescribed pre-operative sedation.
• Ensure medication administration is supported by a valid physician order.
• Verify allergies prior to medication administration.
• Maintain knowledge of medication purposes, intended actions, and potential side effects.
• Accurately document medications, dosage, administration time, and route on the Pre-Operative Record.

Emergency Response & Clinical Judgment

• Function independently during emergency situations.
• Demonstrate proficiency in emergency nursing skills and patient stabilization.
• Exercise sound clinical judgment and make timely, appropriate decisions.

Compliance & Professional Practice

• Maintain patient and employee privacy and confidentiality at all times.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with physicians and outside providers involved in pre-operative testing and services.
• Work within established facility and departmental safety guidelines.
• Report malfunctioning or damaged equipment promptly.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Professional Development

• Maintain competency through continuing education and professional development.
• Meet all CEU requirements for RN licensure renewal.
• Attend all required facility in-services and training programs.
• Assist with orientation and training of new employees as directed.

Inventory & Environment Management

• Maintain adequate supplies and ensure a clean, organized work environment.
• Monitor and control usage of supplies utilized within the department.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of healthcare products, inventory management, stock rotation procedures, storage systems, preference card management, and credits.
• Knowledge of medical terminology and healthcare-related products.
• Understanding of inventory control and supply management procedures.
• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to effectively manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to accurately handle large volumes of detailed information.
• Demonstrated leadership and teamwork skills.
• Ability to interact professionally and effectively with physicians, staff, vendors, and leadership.
• Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations.
• Ability to perform data entry and manage equipment and supply tracking functions.

Physical Requirements

This position requires a combination of sitting, standing, walking, and physical activity associated with both patient care and supply management responsibilities.

Physical Requirements

• Standing: 66-100%
• Walking: 66-100%
• Sitting: 0-33%
• Lifting: Up to 50 lbs. as needed
• Carrying: Up to 25 lbs. as needed
• Pushing: Up to 400 lbs. on wheels with assistance as needed
• Pulling: As necessary while providing patient care
• Climbing: Up to 1-5 flights of stairs as necessary
• Bending: Frequent bending required to retrieve items and provide patient care
• Squatting: As necessary while providing patient care
• Rotating: Shoulder rotation as required
• Kneeling: As necessary while providing patient care
• Reaching: Overhead reaching as necessary while providing patient care

Additional Requirements

• Visual acuity and hearing ability must be sufficient to safely assess patients, communicate effectively, and perform all essential job duties.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced ambulatory surgery center environment while maintaining a high standard of patient care.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Health Savings Account with an employer contribution
• Life Insurance
• PTO
• 401(k) retirement plan with a company match
• And more!