Pre-Op/PACU Nurse - Harleysville, United States - Grand View Surgery Center at Harleysville

Description

Job Description

• Collect and record data regarding the physiologic and psychologic health of patients in a systematic manner.
• Review diagnostic tests and patient health history information for abnormalities.
• Report unsual findings to Medical Director, anesthesiologist or Director of Nursing as appropriate.
• Apprise Medical Director and/or Director of Nursing of suspected child or adult abuse.
• Complete event reports as necessary.
• Verify patient identification.
• Prepare patients for surgery by assisting them, when necessary in changing to an OR gown.
• Start IVs as may be necessary.
• Assess patient level of pain tolerance pre- and post-operatively.
• Administer drugs and other agents as directed by the practitioner or anesthesiologist.
• Monitor patient vital signs at various stages of care.
• Maintain knowledge for safe and effective use of various pieces of equipment used in the Pre-Op and PACU areas, inducing but not limited to: IV therapy equipment, cardiac monitors and defibrillator, glucometer, pulse oximeter and blood pressure monitor.
• In recover phase, evaluate patient readiness for discharge.
• Determine patient's/ parent's ability to understand and retain instructions.
• Instruct patients and or adult companions as appropriate regarding post-discharge care.
• Record findings and patient data on appropriate Center forms in a timely manner; user and enter data into Center information system as appropriate.
• Adhere to all Center policies and procedures, including, without limitation, those relating to HIPPA (patient privacy) and the Patient Safety Act.
• Participate on center committees as assigned.
• Administer various questionnaires to patients.
• Respond to Center emergencies as appropriate.
• Assure that emergency equipment is available and functioning.
• Exhibit a professional and courteous approach to all patients, practitioners, colleagues and visitors.
• Use supplies in a cost-effective manner.
• Arrive for duty promptly.
• Other duties as assigned.

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Graduate of accredited school of nursing: valid, current PA license.
• Previous pre-op/PACU experience, preferably in an ambulatory setting.

• Occasional need to lift heavy objects and assist in lifting patients; duties require twisting, reaching and pushing objects from light to heavy weights.
• Good interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to read, write and speak English.
• Protentional exposure to disruptive or uncontrollable patients or visitors.
• Handle potentially dangerous materials.
• May have unanticipated need to work overtime.
• Ability to handle multiple task concurrently.
• Frequent need to stand/walk for long periods of time.
• Current Pennsylvania nursing license.
• BLS and/or ACLS and/or PALS certification as required by Director of Nursing