RN Preop Inpatient Holding

About the Role

The Registered Nurse (RN) provides patient-centered care through the nursing process of assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. This role is responsible for coordinating and delivering high-quality care based on established clinical protocols and physician/provider orders. The RN collaborates with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure effective patient care and desired outcomes, while maintaining a supportive and compassionate environment for patients and their families.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinates and delivers high-quality, patient-centered care in accordance with organizational policies, protocols, and the nursing process.

• Conducts thorough patient assessments and documents findings accurately, reporting changes in condition to the appropriate care team members.

• Utilizes knowledge of human growth and development to provide age-appropriate care and education.

• Administers prescribed medications, monitors for side effects, and documents administration in accordance with standards of practice.

• Assists physicians during procedures within the scope of documented competency and skill level.

• Collaborates with the healthcare team to develop, implement, and evaluate individualized care plans based on patient assessments and needs.

• Responds to medical emergencies and participates in life-saving interventions, such as CPR and code team activities, as appropriate.

• Advocates for the rights and needs of patients, ensuring their voices are heard and respected in care planning and delivery.

• Provides patient and family education on medical conditions, treatment plans, and post-discharge care, ensuring understanding and adherence to instructions.

• Implements and adheres to infection control protocols to prevent the spread of healthcare-associated infections.

• Monitors and operates medical equipment (e.g., IV pumps, monitors, ventilators) as needed for patient care and safety.

• Promotes patient safety by adhering to National Patient Safety Goals and maintaining a clean, safe environment for patients and staff.

• Participates in audits, chart reviews, and compliance checks to ensure adherence to standards of practice and regulatory requirements.

• Demonstrates responsible decision-making in planning, delegating, and providing care based on patient needs and organizational policies.

• Documents patient care and education thoroughly and promptly in the medical record.

• Engages in professional development to maintain clinical competency and understanding of current nursing standards and regulations.

• Participates in performance improvement initiatives, including data collection and process development, to enhance patient outcomes and care delivery.

• PACU RN Specific Responsibilities:

• Assesses the patient's level of consciousness and responsiveness as they wake up from anesthesia.

• Evaluates pain levels and administers pain medications as prescribed.

• Observes any side effects of anesthesia, such as nausea, vomiting, shivering, or muscle aches.

• Monitors for and responds to any post-operative complications.

• Administers medications, including pain relievers and other post-operative medications, as prescribed.

• Regulates intravenous (IV) fluids and monitors fluid balance.

• Checks and changes dressings on surgical wounds.

• Ensures a clear airway and provides oxygen support as needed.

• Educates patients and families about post-surgery care, potential complications, and discharge instructions.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.

• Complies with all policies and standards.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Nursing Process
• Clinical Nursing Practices
• Patient Assessments
• Medication Administration
• Interpersonal Skills
• Organizational Skills
• Safety Standards
• Infection Control
• Quality Improvement Initiatives
• Medical Equipment Monitoring (e.g., IV pumps, monitors, ventilators)
• National Patient Safety Goals

Qualifications

• 0-2 years of experience in a clinical nursing role or student clinical rotations in an acute care setting.
• RN - Registered Nurse - State Licensure and/or Compact State Licensure.
• BCLS - Basic Life Support.
• ACLS - Advanced Cardiac Life Support (preferred).
• PALS - Pediatric Advanced Life Support (preferred).
• NRP - Neonatal Resuscitation (preferred).
• Refer to facility or unit-specific guidelines for additional requirements.