Description
Position Summary: Delivers nursing care in the Post-Operative Care Unit (PACU) to patients entering the postoperative phase of treatment, responsible for assessing the patient's condition and readiness for discharge. The staffing of the Center is based on a teamwork concept. Employees may be cross-trained in other clinical areas and may be expected to perform duties other than their normal ones as staffing and patient needs change. Responsibilities: 1. Ensures that the PACU has a clean and therapeutic environment for all patients at all times 2. Ensures supplies and equipment needed are available and in good working order 3. Admits the patient to the unit and monitors recovery from anesthesia and surgical procedure 4. Makes initial assessment and determined the nursing needs of the patient 5. Follows and implements physician's orders and performs all required nursing activities 6. Explains nursing procedures and actions taken to help reduce anxiety 7. Identifies patient's physical and mental status 8. Monitors the patient's medical condition and reports any significant changes to the admitting physician or anesthesiologist 9. Documents accurately in the patient's medical record the care received and the progress in the recovery process 10. Assures that the patient fits the documented criteria prior to discharge 11. Gives patients and family members emotional support as necessary 12. Performs other nursing duties as assigned 13. Maintains established Center/departmental policies and procedures 14. Maintains confidentiality of patient and Center related business 15. Develops and maintains an effective working relationship with patients, families, visitors and other Center employees 16. Documents concisely, precisely and accurately on all records or documents as indicated by policy. 17. Participates in Quality Assessment activities as directed for the continuous improvement of patient care and Center business
Requirements
Qualifications: 1. Graduate of an accredited school of professional nursing or vocational school 2. Licensed to practice in the state 3. Previous PACU experience required 4. ACLS 5. PALS preferred | 
