REGISTERED NURSE (RN) - OP/PACU (PRN)

JOB TITLE: Registered Nurse # Outpatient Services/ PACU DEPARTMENT: Surgical Services REPORTS TO: Surgical Services Director JOB SUMMARY The Outpatient Services/PACU Nurse is responsible for the safe preparation, education, and discharge of the patient scheduled for a procedure. Responsibility includes assessment, diagnosis, treatment and evaluation of the patient in outpatient services, pre-op, post-op, PACU, and procedural sedation. JOB REQUIREMENTS Current Wyoming licensure as a Registered Professional Nurse. National perioperative certification preferred. EXPERIENCE Prefer at least 2 years of experience in an acute care or surgical services area. SKILLS Must possess a high degree of confidentiality of all matters with the ability to manage sensitive and confidential situations with tact, professionalism, and diplomacy. Knowledge of perioperative/post-anesthesia care nursing principles. Knowledge of aseptic technique and infection control principles. Able to perform effectively in highly stressful situations. Must be well motivated, organized and able to prioritize multiple tasks. Must be able to interact effectively with a wide variety of people. Excellent communication skills. Effective computer and keyboarding skills. Must have ability to learn and use Microsoft Office Suite products including Outlook. Ability to learn new computer software applications. REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS BLS, ACLS, and PALS required (AHA). TNCC certification required within 6 months of hire or as class availability allows (only for RNs that would respond to trauma I or take PACU call). ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Provide direct patient care, evaluate outcomes and adjust the nursing care process as indicated to ensure optimal patient care. Able to perform a focused assessment and reassessment.#This includes pediatric, adolescent, geriatric and the general patient population. Able to monitor the hemodynamic status of the patient and correctly interpret results. Knowledge of cardiac monitoring, able to identify arrhythmias, and intervene using ACLS and PALS algorithms and physician orders. Prepare patient for examination or procedure and assist the physician as needed. Maintain accurate and continued nursing documentation including patient history, condition, vital signs, treatment, response to intervention, and change of status. Treat patient and their family with respect and dignity.#Function as a liaison for the patient between the physician and other health care providers. Practice within Nursing Standards of Practice and follow standards of patient care # CRH Policies and Procedures. Adhere to MD orders Teach the patient based on identified learning needs; evaluate the effectiveness of the patients learning. Include the family in the teaching as appropriate.#Review discharge instructions with the patient or responsible party. Maintain current knowledge of medications and their correct administration based on age and patient clinical condition. Calculate, prepare, hang, monitor and discontinue IV fluids and medication drips. Follow procedure for medication administration and narcotics control. Utilize EMAR, scans and use 2 sources of patient ID before all medications and procedures. Perform treatments and procedures as directed, which are within the individual#s training and capabilities. Communicate questions about appropriateness of medical or nursing care through chain of command, as needed, utilizing the SBAR form of communication. Complete incident and error forms when appropriate. SECONDARY FUNCTIONS Ensure all rooms and work areas are kept clean, stocked, and ready for use. Verify supplies are stocked and put away in the appropriate location. Complete daily department tasks, monthly outdates, and survey compliance checks as scheduled. Communicate questions and concerns through chain of command as appropriate. Assist with the orientation of new employees to the department.# Supervise and provide nursing students the opportunities to observe and learn. Attend mandatory in-service, yearly education day and department meetings.#Enhance professional growth by attending educational offerings pertaining to Perioperative Nursing. Work with other departments in coordinating smooth transfer of patients. Perform other related duties as assigned or requested.