Rn Post Anesthesia Care Unit Nurse

Job Summary:

The Registered Nurse in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) is responsible for providing skilled nursing care to patients recovering from surgery, including those in pre-op and Phase I and II recovery. This role requires advanced knowledge of anesthesiology and critical care skills to monitor patient stability, assess incision sites, and manage post-operative complications. The nurse collaborates with the interdisciplinary team to ensure patient safety and quality care in a fast-paced surgical environment.

• Provide nursing care to patients in pre-operative, Phase I, and Phase II post-anesthesia recovery.
• Monitor vital signs, incision sites, and other indicators of patient stability or complications.
• Utilize critical care skills to assess and manage patient needs following surgery.
• Operate and manage medical equipment including Meditech, PCA Pumps, Pyxis, Braun IV Pumps, Cryocuff, SCD's, Bair PAWS Warmers, HP Monitors, and Phillips Monitors.
• Collaborate with anesthesiologists, surgeons, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate patient care.
• Document patient status and care activities accurately and timely.
• Respond to emergencies and provide advanced life support as needed.

• Active Registered Nurse license in the state of Hawaii.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience as a critical care RN (e.g., ER or ICU) or PACU nurse.
• Valid Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certifications from the American Heart Association.
• Proof of flu vaccination or approved medical/religious exemption prior to contract start.

• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification recommended and may be required for certain positions.
• Other specialty certifications such as NIHSS and Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC) are preferred.
• Experience with PACU nursing and surgical nursing.

• Must obtain and maintain a valid Hawaii nursing license before starting the assignment.
• On-call shifts required 0-3 times per month, including 8-hour night and 24-hour weekend/holiday coverage.
• Work environment includes acute surgical and post-anesthesia care units.

• Shifts vary between 8, 10, and 12 hours.
• Shift times include days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.
• No guarantee of hours or shift preference; assignments may vary between ASU and PACU units.