Pre/Post-Operative Clinical Nurse (PACU)

Quick Facts

• Role: Pre/Post-Operative Clinical Nurse (PACU)
• Setting: High-acuity Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) supporting complex surgical patients and pre-operative care
• Schedule: 0.9 FTE (three 12-hour shifts per week, 11:00am–11:30pm) with weekend/holiday/on-call requirements

Description

This Pre/Post-Op Clinical Nurse position delivers evidence-based, individualized care for patients recovering from anesthesia and receiving pre-operative care. The role focuses on safe, high-acuity post-operative monitoring, identifying pre-anesthetic surgical risk factors, and participating in research and quality improvement. Nurses also have opportunities for growth through education, coaching, and the LEAD program.

Responsibilities

• Advocate for patient-centered, age-specific, culturally sensitive nursing plans of care
• Assess for post-operative complications; provide safe recovery and discharge teaching
• Identify pre-anesthetic surgical risk factors and escalate appropriately when needed
• Advance clinical expertise through continuing education and specialty certification when eligible
• Educate patients, families, students, and team members; develop individualized education plans
• Evaluate and document patient responses; individualize the care plan based on findings
• Delegate and supervise interventions; ensure complete, timely handoffs
• Participate in research-related activities, including evidence-based practice and quality improvement
• Engage professionally through mentoring, precepting, and committee/taskforce participation
• Participate in annual volunteer initiatives

Requirements

• 2+ years of ICU, PACU, or ER nursing experience
• Graduate of an NLN-accredited nursing program; BSN or higher
• Current Illinois Registered Professional Nurse (RN) license
• AHA Healthcare Provider CPR and AHA ACLS certifications
• Analytical, communication, and strong human relations skills
• Physical ability: lift/carry up to 35 pounds; push/pull 50 pounds of force

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits supporting physical, emotional, and financial well-being and coverage for unexpected life events
• Benefits eligibility may vary by employment classification (see benefits page for details)
• Sign-on bonus eligibility rules apply if included in the posting