PreOp/PACU Registered Nurse (PRN)

Description Are you passionate about serving patients in an inspiring work environment alongside talented people? Then get moving with OCR! With 55 years in the Front Range, we are still the premier provider of orthopedic care in Colorado, Wyoming, and Nebraska; and as our organization continues to grow, we are looking for individuals who share our mission!

The PreOp/PACU Registered Nurse is responsible for total nursing care of all pre-and post-surgical patients, including education enabling patient to become a partner in their recovery.

Essential

Duties and Responsibilities

Assists in (or performs under medical direction) diagnostic and therapeutic procedures including administration of medications, application of drugs, starting intravenous drips (IV's), application of orthopedic devices (i.e. continuous passive motion (CPM) devices, cast shoes), and preparation of patients for surgery including appropriate surgical site preparation, in efficient and timely manner. Ensures pre-operative care requirements of patients are accomplished thorough use of the nursing process including assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation and evaluation. Records health history of patients; notes abnormal conditions for physician. Performs preoperative teachings efficiently and timely. Is aware of complications that could result from anesthesia; demonstrates knowledge of appropriate treatment for complications of anesthesia. Maintains and operates emergency equipment. Performs resuscitative procedures, if necessary. Provides for the emotional and physical comfort and safety of patients. Instructs patients in self care, rehabilitation, prevention, health education, and post-op wound care. Makes entries in clinical records; records charges; completes all paperwork accurately and legibly. Follows policies for infection control in handling and disposing of infectious/hazardous waste materials. Records narcotics used in narcotic log book. Prior to surgery, review charts for completeness; ensures that required forms are available and signed. Observes aseptic technique when starting IV’s, changing dressings, or providing wound/incision care. Schedules follow-up patient appointments as necessary. Inventories the crash cart on a daily basis, as assigned. Functions as a member of the surgery center/OCR team. Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Associates Degree from an accredited Registered Nursing (RN) program. Demonstrated knowledge of surgery center procedures and protocols. Skill in applying and modifying the principles, methods and techniques of professional nursing. Valid Colorado Registered Nurse (RN) license. Must provide proof of license and be in good standing. Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification. Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification, preferred. Core competencies in job knowledge, interpersonal skills, communication, teamwork, problem solving, safety and security, and confidentiality. Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and willing to travel to multiple locations. Physical Requirements The work environment is a typical medical office environment. The employee must be able to complete their work satisfactorily in an environment where there are significant distractions, including staff, patients, and vendors walking through and conversing, telephones ringing, conversations carrying over, loud noises, and interruptions to answer questions from others. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to sit and use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls up to 12 hours per day. The employee frequently is required to talk or hear up to 12 hours per day. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms, and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl up to 12 hours a day. The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and should do so in a sound and safe manner. The employee will regularly assist patients in turning (170 lb average); will regularly assist patient in arising from exam table; will regularly push wheelchair patients; and regularly assists patients in arising from and returning to wheelchair or bed.