Pre-Op / PACU Registered Nurse (RN) – Ambulatory Surgery Center
Position Summary
We are seeking a seasoned Pre-Op and PACU Registered Nurse (RN). Responsible for comprehensive perioperative nursing care in a fast-paced ambulatory surgery center. This role supports patients through the full surgical experience—from pre-operative preparation through post-anesthesia recovery and safe discharge. The RN ensures patient safety, comfort, and optimal clinical outcomes across multiple surgical specialties including general surgery, orthopedics, urology, ENT, Urology, GYN and pain management procedures.
Key Responsibilities
Pre-Operative Care
- Perform initial patient assessment, including medical history, allergies, medications, and NPO status
- Verify surgical consent, procedure site, and patient identification (surgical safety checklist compliance)
- Establish IV access and administer pre-operative medications as ordered
- Provide patient and family education regarding procedure, anesthesia expectations, and post-op care
- Collaborate with anesthesia and surgical teams to ensure patient readiness for surgery
- Identify and escalate any abnormal findings or safety concerns prior to surgery
PACU (Post-Anesthesia Care Unit) Responsibilities
- Provide immediate post-anesthesia recovery care following surgical procedures
- Continuously monitor airway, breathing, circulation, vital signs, and neurological status
- Manage pain control, nausea/vomiting, and post-operative symptoms per protocol
- Recognize and respond to post-anesthesia complications such as respiratory depression, hypotension, bleeding, or agitation
- Administer medications including analgesics, antiemetics, and oxygen therapy as ordered
- Ensure safe patient stabilization and progression toward discharge criteria (e.g., Aldrete scoring)
- Communicate effectively with anesthesia providers and surgeons regarding patient status
- Complete accurate and timely EMR documentation
Discharge & Continuity of Care
- Ensure patients meet discharge criteria for ambulatory surgery center release
- Provide clear verbal and written discharge instructions to patients and caregivers
- Reinforce post-operative care guidelines including pain management, wound care, activity restrictions, and follow-up instructions
- Coordinate safe patient discharge and transportation verification
Required Qualifications
- Active and current Registered Nurse (RN) license (NYS or compact state equivalent)
- Current BLS certification (required)
- Current ACLS certification (required or obtained within specified timeframe)
- Minimum 2 years of nursing experience, preferably in:
- PACU
- Emergency Department
- Perioperative / Surgical Services
- Strong knowledge of anesthesia recovery, perioperative protocols, and outpatient surgical care
- Proficiency in electronic medical records (EMR) systems
Preferred Experience
- Ambulatory surgery center (ASC) experience
- Experience across multiple specialties (orthopedics, ENT, urology, general surgery, pain procedures)
- Strong IV skills and conscious sedation recovery experience
Key Skills & Competencies
- Excellent clinical assessment and critical thinking skills
- Ability to manage multiple patients in a fast-paced environment
- Strong communication with patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams
- High attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols
- Ability to respond rapidly to clinical changes and emergencies
- Strong organizational and documentation skills
- Compassionate, patient-centered approach
Work Environment
- Outpatient ambulatory surgery center setting
- Fast-paced perioperative workflow with same-day discharge focus
- Exposure to multiple surgical specialties and varying patient acuity
- Requires standing, walking, and physical support of patients throughout shift
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $50.00 - $55.00 per hour
Experience:
- PACU/ Pre Op/Or Circulating: 2 years (Preferred)
- excellent IV skills : 2 years (Preferred)
- Hospital, Acute Care or PACU RN: 2 years (Preferred)
License/Certification:
Ability to Commute:
- Staten Island, NY 10312 (Required)
Work Location: In person
