OR Nurse

The following positions are available:

• Pre-Op/PACU Nurse
• OR Nurse

Status: Full time, Part time, Per Diem

Overview: The OR and Pre-Op/PACU Nurse performs various clinical activities related to the care of Center patients before, during and after surgery.

Reports To: Director of Nursing.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

1. Collect and record data regarding the physiologic and psychologic health of patients in a systematic manner.
2. Review diagnostic tests and patient health history information for abnormalities.
3. Report unusual findings to Director of Nursing as appropriate.
4. Complete event reports as necessary.
5. Verify patient identification.
6. Prepare patients for surgery by assisting them, when necessary, in changing to an OR gown, etc.
7. Start IVs as may be necessary.
8. Participate in surgeries and assist in the OR.
9. Assess patient level of pain tolerance pre- and postoperatively.
10. Administer drugs and other agents as directed by the practitioner or anesthesiologist.
11. Monitor patient vital signs at various stages of care.
12. Maintain knowledge for safe and effective use of various pieces of equipment used in the Pre-Op and PACU areas, including, but not limited to: IV therapy equipment, cardiac monitors and defibrillator, glucometer, pulse oximeter and blood pressure monitor.
13. In recovery phase, evaluate patient readiness for discharge.
14. Determine patient’s/parent’s ability to understand and retain instructions.
15. Instruct patients and/or adult companions as appropriate regarding post-discharge care.
16. Record findings and patient data on appropriate Center forms in a timely manner; use and enter data into Center information system as appropriate.
17. Adhere to all Center policies and procedures, including, without limitation, those relating to HIPAA (patient privacy) and the Patient Safety Act.
18. Participate on Center committees as assigned.
19. Administer various questionnaires to patients.
20. Respond to Center emergencies as appropriate.
21. Assure that emergency equipment is available and functioning.
22. Exhibit a professional and courteous approach to all patients, practitioners, colleagues and visitors.
23. Use supplies in a cost effective manner.
24. Arrive for duty promptly.
25. Other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

1. High school diploma.
2. Graduate of an accredited school of nursing; valid, current PA license.
3. Previous pre-op/PACU experience, preferably in an ambulatory setting.

Other Qualifications and Considerations

1. Occasional need to lift heavy objects or assist in lifting patients; extended periods of standing/walking; twisting, reaching for and pushing of light to heavy weight objects.
2. Current Pennsylvania nursing license.
3. Excellent interpersonal communication skills.
4. BLS and/or ACLS and/or PALS certification as required by Director of Nursing.
5. Ability to speak, write and read English.
6. Potential exposure to disruptive or uncontrollable patients.
7. Handle potentially dangerous materials.
8. May require unanticipated need to work beyond scheduled shift due to patient care needs.