The Registered Nurse (RN) - PACU will be responsible for delegation, supervision, and provision of nursing care for designated group of patients through utilization of the nursing process.  Provides age appropriate care.  Participates in research when appropriate and incorporates research findings into evidence-based clinical practice.  Contributes to quality improvement processes.  Adheres to MHS Mission, Vision, and Values, the Nursing Division Mission, Vision, and Philosophy, the ANA Code of Ethics and the Illinois Nursing Act. 

Education:

• ADN required, BSN preferred.

Licensure/Certification/Registry:

• Possesses current RN licensure in the State of Illinois.
• Certified in CPR or completes certification during Nursing Team Onboarding required
• Certification in ACLS required or completes certification within 90 days of employment.
• Certification in PALS preferred

Experience:

• One or more years of experience in acute care setting preferred..

Other Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Working Conditions-Physical Requirements & Atmosphere:

• Ability to take call.
• Understands the role of the professional nurse and his/her responsibilities as a member of the health care team.
• Has knowledge of basic nursing principles and procedures with ability to make appropriate nursing judgments based on the knowledge.
• Demonstrated positive attitude and good physical health.
• Demonstrates commitment to the philosophy of Nursing Service.
• Potential exposure to infectious diseases.
• Potential exposure to blood borne pathogens and body fluids.
• Requires ability to assist transferring patients over 50 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to stand and walk for long periods of time, bend and kneel, lift or push or pull up to 50 lbs.
• Physical demands include repetitive motions of the hands, walking, standing and reaching above the head.

1. Responsible for providing and coordinating comprehensive care for post-operative patients of all age groups.

2. Must use sound judgment and advanced assessment skills to evaluate pain, N/V, body temperature and/or trouble breathing.

3. Implements appropriate interventions identified in the plan of care to move the patient toward established goals or outcomes.

4. Completes documentation in the patient medical record accurately and in a timely manner.

5. Demonstrated technical knowledge and skill to safely utilize patient care equipment.

6. Prioritizes work based on changes in the patient condition, changes in assignments and unanticipated interruptions.

7. Collaborates with the health care team to organize tasks and activities from the patient’s admission through discharge. Delegates tasks and activities to other members in the health care team using appropriate

8. Performs all nursing care activities using techniques to promote safety, reduce risks, and follows policies and procedures.

9. Acts as an advocate for the patient with families, physicians and other healthcare team members.

10. Adapts teaching strategies passed on the patient’s response, readiness to learn and level of comprehension.

11. Support great patient experience and lead others to support initiatives in patient experience.

12. Performs other related work as required or requested.

The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job.  Incumbents may be requested to perform tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

Revised:   6/19/2017

                  10/2018

                  08/2020