Registered Nurse (RN) - Float PACU - Post Anesthesia Care
GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIV HOSP
WASHINGTON, Washington, DC
Days

PACU RN posting

GW Hospital is a 395-bed tertiary care, academic medical center located in downtown Washington, DC, next to the Foggy Bottom metro. GW Hospital serves a diverse group of patients—from residents to our nation’s leaders. As an academic Level I Trauma Center, GW Hospital has the resources and clinical expertise necessary to provide specialized, complex care. US News and World Report has recognized GW Hospital as high performing in the specialties of Neurology, Neurosurgery, Urology, Stroke, COPD, Cardiac, Kidney, Lung Cancer.  GW Hospital is the only DC hospital awarded the LeapFrog B for quality and safety.  GW Hospital is growing, with plans to open a new hospital in 2024, along with free-standing emergency centers, urgent-care centers, and outpatient procedural care

centers.  www.gwhospital.com

The mission of George Washington University Hospital is to provide the highest quality healthcare, advanced medical technology, and world-class service to its patients in an academic medical center dedicated to education and research.  

Job Title: PACU RN

Location: The George Washington University Hospital

Position Type: Temporary - 6 month contract

Job Description: As a PACU RN at The George Washington University Hospital, you will be an essential member of our Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) team, dedicated to providing exceptional care to patients recovering from surgical procedures. Drawing upon your experience in critical care, specifically in areas such as the Emergency Department (ED), Intensive Care Unit (ICU), or PACU, you will play a crucial role in managing critically ill patients on ventilators and drips within the PACU setting. Your expertise and compassionate care will contribute to the overall well-being and recovery of our patients.

This position is for a supplemental pool RN.  It ends at 6 months.  No extensions.

Responsibilities:

• Provides Phase I and Phase II care in the post operative environment.
• Assess and monitor patients' vital signs, consciousness, and overall condition as they recover from anesthesia.
• Administer medications, manage post-operative pain, and provide necessary interventions to ensure patient comfort and safety.
• Monitor patients for signs of complications or adverse reactions to anesthesia, surgical procedures, or medications.
• Collaborate with the anesthesia team and surgeons to ensure a smooth transition from the operating room to the PACU.
• Provide emotional support and education to patients and their families regarding the recovery process and post-operative care instructions.

• Utilize advanced clinical knowledge and critical thinking skills to assess patients and make informed decisions regarding their care.
• Stay up to date on the latest developments in PACU nursing, anesthesia, and surgical techniques to provide high-quality, evidence-based care.

• Effectively communicate with the surgical team, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to deliver care in a fast-paced, complex environment.
• Collaborate with the healthcare team to develop individualized care plans for patients based on their surgical procedures and medical history.
• Communicate clearly and compassionately with patients and their families, addressing any concerns and providing explanations about the recovery process.

• Accurately document all patient assessments, interventions, and outcomes in the electronic health record (EHR) system.
• Maintain detailed records of medications administered, patient responses, and any adverse reactions, ensuring compliance with hospital policies and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications:

• Graduate of an accredited or NLN-approved RN program.

• Current and valid DC RN license.
• Bachelor's degree in Nursing (BSN) preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in critical care, with specific experience in areas such as the Emergency Department (ED), Intensive Care Unit (ICU), or PACU.
• BLS certification
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification required.
• Proficiency in managing critically ill patients on ventilators and drips, demonstrating competence and confidence in providing complex care in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent assessment, critical thinking, and communication skills, with the ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.
• Demonstrate a proven track record of commitment, with the ability to sustain employment for a minimum of two years. This requirement underscores our dedication to fostering long-term relationships with our team members and ensuring stability within our organization.

Skills

• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written
• Effective interpersonal skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to adapt to multiple and changing priorities