Littleton Hospital Association·Littleton, New Hampshire
Deliver comprehensive nursing care to patients across pre-operative, intra-procedural, and post-operative phases in SDS, PACU, and Endoscopy units. Coordinate patient flow, monitor recovery using ASPAN guidelines, and provide discharge education to patients and caregivers.
Department: Perioperative Services (SDS/PACU/ENDO)
9.5
The Staff Registered Nurse delivers comprehensive nursing care to patients undergoing surgery, endoscopic procedures, and post-anesthesia recovery. This role includes pre-operative, intra-procedural, and post-operative phases, spanning Same Day Surgery (SDS), Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU), and Endoscopy. Care is provided across the lifespan and in accordance with hospital policies, evidence-based practice, and the New Hampshire Nurse Practice Act.
Essential duties and responsibilities: Pre-Operative / Pre-Procedural
Review patient history, verify consents, and ensure pre-procedure testing is complete.
Collect and document patient data (labs, progress notes, history and physical) using EHR and other systems.
Conduct complete pre-procedure nursing assessments for both surgical and endoscopy patients.
Evaluate patient education needs and reinforce understanding of the procedure, including NPO status, sedation expectations, and post-procedure care.
Initiate IV access and complete all physician/CRNA pre-op orders, including EKGs and medication administration.
Ensure timely coordination of care to support patient flow and surgical schedule readiness.
Intra-Procedural support (Sds / Endoscopy)
Assist in preparing patients and procedure rooms for surgery or endoscopy.
Support the procedural team by ensuring all documentation, supplies, and medications are ready and available.
Maintain situational awareness to anticipate team needs and patient status changes.
Post-Operative / Post-Procedure recovery (Pacu / Endo recovery)
Provide ongoing monitoring and assessment during Phase I and II recovery using ASPAN guidelines and the Modified Aldrete Score.
Deliver post-procedure education including wound care, dietary guidance, activity restrictions, and signs of complications.
Communicate discharge instructions to patients and caregivers and confirm follow-up appointments as needed.
Ensure all discharge criteria are met prior to patient release and support smooth transitions in care.
Professional responsibilities
Participate in staff meetings, training, and skills validation for all SDS, PACU, and Endoscopy responsibilities.
Maintain open communication with physicians, anesthesia providers, and interdisciplinary staff to ensure safe, coordinated care.
Support quality and safety initiatives, including infection prevention and patient experience efforts.
Precept and mentor new staff as assigned.
Participate in review and follow-up of adverse events, variances, and near misses.
Certifications
ACLS – Required within 45 days of hire
PALS – Required within 45 days of hire Ancillary Duties
Order and restock supplies in SDS, PACU, and Endoscopy areas.
Clean rooms and equipment in off-hours or between cases.
Maintain readiness of all clinical and patient care spaces.
Working conditions / Physical requirements
Fast-paced, high-acuity environment with exposure to blood, body fluids, and chemicals.
Requires frequent standing, lifting (up to 50 lbs.), and full range of motion for patient handling and equipment setup.
Must be able to respond rapidly to patient care needs and changing conditions.
May include irregular hours and call coverage as required by the surgical schedule.
Employee Signature: _________________________________
Date: ________________
Must be a Registered Nurse with the ability to obtain ACLS and PALS certifications within 45 days of hire. Requires physical capability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in a fast-paced, high-acuity clinical environment.
Market context
In New Hampshire, nursing roles typically draw steady demand from hospitals, long-term care, and outpatient settings, especially for candidates who already hold a state RN license and an accredited ASN or BSN. These positions can be competitive because employers often look for immediate readiness in core clinical skills such as IV therapy and timely Basic Life Support completion. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to quickly compare fit, then confirm your license status and be ready to highlight relevant bedside experience in your application.
