Job Description

The RN is responsible for delivering comprehensive pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative nursing care at a level that meets or exceeds the expectations of both physicians and facility management. Specific duties include, but are not limited to:

Pre-Operative Care:

Admit patients and prepare them both physically and emotionally for surgery. Follow physician orders regarding IVs, medications, and other pre-op preparations. Ensure that all orders are time-stamped and dated.

Communication:

Inform relevant parties (e.g., family, colleagues) about changes in surgical schedules, including delays or late surgeons.

Aseptic Technique & Clinical Skills:

Demonstrate a thorough understanding of aseptic technique and infection control. Perform and interpret vital signs, auscultate lung/heart sounds, and recognize abnormal findings. Competently start IVs using aseptic technique.

Surgical Support:

Possess strong knowledge of the physiological and anatomical aspects of surgical procedures. Assist surgeons and anesthesiologists as necessary during procedures. Function as a circulating nurse when required. Administer IV conscious sedation under supervision when necessary.

Patient Monitoring & Emergency Care:

Identify and communicate any changes in patient condition to the healthcare team. Assist in managing patient emergencies and follow BCLS/ACLS protocols.

Narcotics Handling:

Count narcotics at the beginning and end of each day with another nurse and ensure proper documentation. Ensure that narcotic waste is witnessed and signed by a second nurse.

Medication Management:

Follow medication regulations, including proper labeling, usage of single-dose vials, checking expiration dates, and aseptic technique. Ensure documentation of medication administration is accurate, including the type, dosage, route, and site. Verify that all medication administration is based on physician orders.

End-of-Day Duties:

Ensure all admitting, operating, and recovery rooms are fully stocked and ready for the next day.

Post-Operative Care:

Provide comprehensive post-op care, including pain control, management of nausea/vomiting, wound care, and following physician orders. Suction patients as needed and assist with their recovery.

Discharge & Follow-Up:

Prepare patients for discharge, including providing post-op instructions to the patient and caregiver. Conduct follow-up calls the next working day to assess patient progress and document findings in the chart.

Ongoing Education & Compliance:

Stay current with new medications and procedures used in the operating room. Attend a minimum of six in-services annually, and complete all mandatory education requirements. Maintain compliance with HIPAA, OSHA, Risk Management, Fire Safety, and Infection Control protocols. Regularly check the crash cart, defibrillator, oxygen, and AED, and document weekly checks. Log refrigerator temperatures daily.

Additional Duties:

Ensure chart packets are complete for daily use. Stay updated on scheduling changes and admissions coordination with office staff.

Qualifications:

Graduate of an accredited nursing school with a current Arizona State RN license. Ability to function under pressure in emergency situations, prioritize tasks, and make quick decisions. ACLS and BCLS certification (must be renewed within 30 days of expiration). Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with coworkers and physicians. Physical stamina to manage the demands of patients recovering from anesthesia, which may involve restlessness or combativeness. Must be able to stand for extended periods, lift heavy objects, and perform the physical demands of patient care.
Pay: $45.00 - $48.00 per hour

Expected hours: 10 - 29 per week

Experience:

Pain management: 1 year (Preferred)
License/Certification:

RN License in the state of AZ (Required)
Work Location: In person