Job Description

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Current licensure as a Registered Nurse in the State of Texas (or compact state license)
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certifications required (or obtained within 30 days of hire)
• Strong clinical assessment and critical thinking skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to function efficiently in a team-oriented environment

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Graduate of an accredited school of nursing (ADN or BSN)
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a preoperative, PACU, critical care, or emergency department setting preferred
• Familiarity with electronic medical records (EMR) systems

OCCUPATIONAL EXPOURE:

• Routine exposure to bloodborne pathogens and bodily fluids
• Potential exposure to chemicals, cleaning agents, and infectious diseases
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required in accordance with hospital policies

RESPONSIBILITES:

• Conducts thorough preoperative assessments and verifies all necessary documentation, labs, and consents
• Provides patient education regarding surgical procedures and post-operative expectations
• Initiates IV access, administers medications, and prepares patients for surgery
• Monitors patients in the post-anesthesia care unit, assessing airway, vital signs, pain, and surgical sites
• Administers medications and interventions as ordered to manage pain, nausea, or complications
• Documents all care and assessments accurately in the EMR system
• Communicates effectively with surgical teams and family members regarding patient status
• Ensures safe discharge of patients following recovery criteria or prepares for inpatient transfer as needed
• Maintains cleanliness and readiness of the Pre-op and PACU areas
• Participates in ongoing education, staff meetings, and quality improvement initiatives
• Adheres to all infection control and safety protocols

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching
• Must be able to lift and move patients or equipment up to 25 lbs
• Ability to respond quickly to emergency situations
• Requires visual and auditory acuity to assess patients and respond to alarms

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Fast-paced, patient-centered surgical and recovery environment
• May involve variable shifts, including early morning or evening hours
• Occasional overtime based on surgical schedule and patient needs
• Collaborative and team-oriented culture in a hospital setting