Key Responsibilities
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Pre-Operative Care
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Conduct pre-operative assessments including medical history, medication review, allergies, and vital signs.
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Ensure proper documentation, consent verification, and patient readiness for surgery.
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Provide patient and family education regarding surgical procedures, anesthesia, and recovery expectations.
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Collaborate with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and OR staff to optimize surgical preparation.
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Post-Operative Care (PACU / Surgical Unit)
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Monitor patients emerging from anesthesia, assessing respiratory status, pain levels, surgical site condition, and vitals.
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Administer medications including pain management and post-anesthesia drugs as prescribed.
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Recognize and respond to complications such as airway obstruction, bleeding, or abnormal vital signs.
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Provide emotional support and education to patients and families during recovery.
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Document assessments, interventions, and patient responses in the electronic health record accurately and promptly.
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General Responsibilities
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Communicate effectively with the interdisciplinary team to coordinate care and ensure continuity.
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Maintain a safe and clean environment adhering to infection control and hospital protocols.
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Participate in shift hand-offs, bedside reporting, and staff meetings.
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Support and mentor newer staff or students as appropriate.
Qualifications
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Licensure: Current Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in State or Compact License.
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Experience: Minimum 6 months of acute care RN or LPN experience, preferably in pre-op, PACU, or surgical/medical-surgical settings.
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Education: Graduate of an accredited School of Nursing (ADN required; BSN preferred).
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Certifications:
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BLS (Basic Life Support) - required.
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ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) - required or must obtain within 3 months of hire.
Preferred Qualifications
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Previous experience in pre-operative, PACU, or surgical nursing.
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Strong IV insertion and airway management skills.
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Familiarity with electronic health record systems (e.g., Epic, Cerner).
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Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN) or Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse (CAPA) preferred.
PhysicalWork Environment Requirements
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Ability to lift and move patients and equipment (up to 50 lbs).
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Frequent standing, walking, bending, and moving during 12-hour night shifts.
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Exposure to surgical patients, medications, blood/body fluids, and medical equipment.
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Fast-paced environment requiring rapid assessment and decision-making skills.
ScheduleShift Details
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Shift: Night Shift (typically 6:00 PM - 6:00 AM, depending on unit need).
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WeekendsHolidays: Rotation required.
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On-Call: May be required depending on surgical volume and unit staffing.