RWJ Endosurgical Center - RN PreOp/PACU

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the direction of Clinical Leadership the PreOp/PACU RN provides comprehensive care to patients before and after surgery, ensuring their safety and well-being throughout the perioperative period. This includes preparing patients for surgery, monitoring vital signs and overall condition until point of discharge. Provide appropriate assessment of physical, psychosocial/family, cultural, personal beliefs or restrictions, cognitive abilities, and pain and comfort needs. Maintain open communication with all staff to promote improvement in performance and quality care.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Evaluate patients’ physical and mental health, gather relevant medical history, and prepare them for surgery, including assessment of surgical site, assessment of airway quality and function, administering pre-operative medications and IV fluids as needed.
• Provide clear and concise explanations of the surgical procedure, and what to expect during and after surgery to the patient and family members.
• Ensure the surgical site is properly prepared, verify informed consent, and implement safety protocols to prevent complications.
• Conduct venipuncture and blood draws as needed.
• Communicate effectively with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other members of the surgical team to ensure seamless patient care.
• Monitor vital signs, oxygen levels, and overall condition of patients as they recover from anesthesia.
• Administer pain medication and implement pain management strategies to ensure patient comfort.
• Recognize and manage any complications that may arise during the post-operative period.
• Assess patients’ readiness for discharge or transfer providing discharge instructions to patient and other family members.
• Ensure proper supplies, equipment, and medications are ready for use.
• Maintains up-to-date and accurate documentation of nursing care provided to ensure the integration of information for use by the healthcare team.
• Operate any designated equipment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

REQUIRED:

• Minimum two years of nursing experience
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Graduate of an accredited school of nursing
• RN license in appropriate State
• BLS, ACLS, and PALS

PREFERRED:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Nursing
• ASC experience