Registered Nurse- Safety Sensitive

Position Overview:The Registered Nurse (RN) in the Pre-Op/Post-Op department provides direct care to patients before and after surgical procedures. This role involves preparing patients for surgery, monitoring them through the recovery process, and providing education and support to both patients and their families. The RN is responsible for assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating nursing care in accordance with best practices, facility protocols, and patient safety standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Pre-Operative Care

  • Conduct pre-operative assessments, including reviewing medical histories, vital signs, and lab results.
  • Ensure patients are properly prepared for surgery, which may include educating them on the procedure, discussing potential risks, and addressing concerns.
  • Administer pre-operative medications, including antibiotics or sedatives, as prescribed.
  • Verify patient identification, surgical site, and procedure in accordance with facility safety protocols (e.g., surgical time-out).
  • Establish and maintain IV access as required for anesthesia and medications.
  • Provide emotional support and comfort to patients before surgery.
  • Ensure patients are educated on post-operative care instructions.

• Post-Operative Care

  • Monitor patients' vital signs, consciousness level, and overall condition during recovery from anesthesia.
  • Administer post-operative medications as prescribed and manage pain effectively.
  • Assess surgical sites for signs of infection, bleeding, or other complications.
  • Provide education on recovery, including activity restrictions, wound care, and follow-up appointments.
  • Communicate patient status and changes in condition to the surgical team and family members.
  • Ensure patients are stable and ready for discharge or transfer to another unit when appropriate.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop and implement personalized patient care plans.

• Patient Safety & Advocacy

  • Adhere to infection control and safety standards to reduce the risk of complications.
  • Provide high-quality, compassionate care while advocating for the patient’s needs and comfort.
  • Maintain a safe environment by ensuring equipment is functioning correctly and that the recovery room is well-maintained.
  • Respond to emergency situations promptly and effectively, coordinating with other healthcare professionals as necessary.

• Documentation and Communication

  • Document all assessments, interventions, medications, and patient responses in the medical record according to hospital policies.
  • Effectively communicate with physicians, anesthesiologists, surgical teams, and other healthcare professionals.
  • Provide clear handoffs during shift changes and ensure continuity of care.

• Professional Development

  • Stay current with nursing best practices and new developments in perioperative care.
  • Participate in continuing education, training, and departmental meetings.
  • Demonstrate leadership and mentorship for new or less experienced staff.

Qualifications:

• Education:

  • Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited program.
  • Active, unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of [State].
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.
  • Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) and/or Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification may be required based on facility policies.
  • Certification in perioperative nursing (CNOR) preferred but not required.

• Experience:

  • Minimum of 2 years of clinical nursing experience, preferably in a pre-operative, post-operative setting, or cardiac
  • Strong understanding of perioperative nursing protocols and procedures.

• Skills & Abilities:

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with patients, families, and the healthcare team.
  • Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
  • Ability to remain calm and effective in stressful situations.
  • Proficient in the use of electronic medical records (EMR) systems and other relevant technologies.
  • Knowledge of infection control, patient safety, and regulatory requirements.

Working Conditions:

• Full-time position of 40 hours per week. Mandatory call shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment with the ability to adapt to changing patient needs and priorities.
• May require lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods of time.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 10 lbs.
• Ability to stand or walk for long periods.
• Ability to push hospital beds for transport.