Registered Nurse, PACU, Per Diem
Brighton
Friday, 29 May 2026
The Perioperative Services Nurse provides comprehensive nursing care to surgical and procedural patients in the preoperative area and Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU), including both Phase I and Phase II recovery. This position is responsible for patient assessment, monitoring, recovery from anesthesia, pain management, patient education, and coordination of care to ensure safe patient outcomes throughout the perioperative process. This is an evening shift position with weekend and holiday call responsibilities. Position: Registered Nurse Department: PACU - Schedule: Per Diem- scheduled per department needs. ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES / DUTIES:Primary Responsibilities. Preoperative Responsibilities. Perform preoperative patient assessments and documentation. Verify consent forms, surgical site, and required documentation. Start I - Vs and administer preoperative medications as ordered. Ensure completion and review of required labs, testing, and clearances. Provide patient and family education regarding perioperative process. Communicate patient status to anesthesia and surgical team. Prepare patients for surgery according to facility protocols. PACU Responsibilities (Phase I & Phase II)Provide immediate post-anesthesia care and monitoring. Assess airway, breathing, circulation, neurological status, and pain level. Administer medications including pain management and antiemetics. Monitor and document vital signs and patient recovery status. Recognize and respond to post-operative complications. Coordinate discharge planning and provide discharge instructions. Communicate patient status with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and nursing staff. Ensure safe patient discharge according to established criteria. JOB REQUIREMENTS - Required Qualifications. Nursing degree: Diploma, ASN or BSN (preferred), Ability to obtain BSN within 4 years. Current Massachusetts Registered Nurse (RN) License 2 years ICU or Emergency Department experience or 1 year PACU experience required. BLS (Basic Life Support)ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support)PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support)Strong critical thinking and patient assessment skills. Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment. Excellent communication and teamwork skills. EMR experience- EPIC - Preferred Experience. PACU nursing experience. Critical care (ICU) experience. ICU, Emergency Department, or Trauma experience preferred. Ambulatory surgery experience. Physical Requirements. Ability to stand and walk for extended periods. Ability to lift and assist with patient transfers. Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations.