RN PACU Seasonal

Job Summary

This is a seasonal PACU position (13-week assignments available) - DAY SHIFT at Northwest Houghton Hospital!Great opportunity to earn an increased $$$ hourly rate in a temporary Seasonal contract position! Visit Tucson during our \"not so wintery\" winter and enjoy outdoor activities all season while you work! Full-time hours are required. Must have 2+ years of experience in PACU within the last 12 months.

Essential Functions

• 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:

• 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 respond to any post-operative complications.


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


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


• Checks and changes dressings on surgical wounds.


• Ensures a clear airway and provide 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.

Qualifications

2 years of experience in a clinical nursing role in an acute care setting required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of the nursing process and clinical nursing practices.


• Ability to perform thorough patient assessments and communicate findings effectively.


• Proficient in administering medications and monitoring for side effects.


• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams.


• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in documenting patient care.


• Knowledge of safety standards, infection control, and quality improvement initiatives.

Licenses and Certifications

• RN - Registered Nurse - State Licensure and/or Compact State Licensure required


• BCLS - Basic Life Support required


• 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.

Northwest Medical Center Houghton is a 44-bed, full-service hospital serving Tucson's east side. With a cath lab, 24/7 emergency care at our emergency department and Northwest Emergency Center at Vail, ICU (medical/surgical and telemetry), full lab and radiology services and four operating rooms supporting a broad array of specialties, Northwest Medical Center Houghton holds plenty of opportunity for applicants. Whether caring for patients at the bedside or supporting the hospital in a non‑clinical role, we're excited to build a team who can really make an impact on our community. Northwest Medical Center Houghton is accredited by The Joint Commission and is an equal opportunity employer: race, gender, disability and Veteran status, and VEVRAA Federal Contractor - priority referral Protected Veterans requested.INDNUR