RN, Same Day Surgery (4355)

Position Summary:

The RN, Same Day Surgery provides pre-operative and post-operative nursing care to patients undergoing outpatient surgical and procedural services. This role supports safe surgical preparation through thorough assessments, patient education, medication administration, and close coordination with anesthesia and surgical teams. Following procedures, the RN monitors patient recovery, manages pain and comfort needs, and evaluates readiness for discharge in accordance with established clinical standards. Working within a collaborative, fast-paced perioperative environment, this position promotes high-quality, efficient, and patient-centered surgical care through clear communication, accurate documentation, and adherence to perioperative protocols.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform focused pre-operative assessments, review patient histories, and prepare patients for surgery in alignment with anesthesia and surgical requirements.
• Monitor patients in the post-anesthesia and recovery phases, evaluating airway, vital signs, pain, nausea, and overall stability.
• Administer medications, treatments, and interventions as ordered, and document all care accurately in the electronic health record.
• Educate patients and families regarding surgical preparation, post-procedure expectations, pain management, and discharge instructions.
• Coordinate care with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and perioperative support teams to ensure efficient patient flow and adherence to safety and infection prevention protocols.
• Participate in quality, safety, and performance improvement efforts to enhance the effectiveness of same-day surgical services.

Licenses and Certifications Required:

• Current or temporary RN license in ND or compact RN licensure
• BLS required within orientation period
• ACLS and PALS required within 6 months in department
• TNCC course will be attended at least once after orientation to PACU is completed

Educational Requirements:

• RN program as evidenced by licensure

Experience Requirements:

• Previous critical care experience is preferred

Special Skills or Training Requirements:

• None

Physical Requirements:

The RN, Same Day Surgery frequently stands, walks, and assists with patient transfers and positioning throughout the perioperative process. The role requires the ability to move equipment, support patient mobility, and manage moderate physical tasks with proper body mechanics and team assistance. Adequate vision, hearing, dexterity, and communication abilities are essential for medication administration, monitoring patient responses, and providing safe recovery care.

Environmental Requirements:

This position works in a perioperative and recovery care environment with regular exposure to surgical equipment, bodily fluids, disinfectants, and standard clinical hazards. The workflow may include rapid patient turnover, variable noise levels, and frequent interaction with alarms and monitoring devices. Strict adherence to PPE use, infection-control procedures, and all Trinity Health safety practices is required to support a safe environment for patients, visitors, and staff.