What does a PACU RN do?
Published 3 min read
A PACU RN is a registered nurse who works in the post-anesthesia care unit of a hospital. They provide care for patients who have just had surgery, and are responsible for monitoring their vital signs and ensuring that they are comfortable.
PACU RN job duties include:
- Assess patients’ postoperative status and manage pain
- Monitor patients’ vital signs and administer medications as needed
- Perform wound care and dressings changes
- Insert catheters and maintain intravenous (IV) lines
- Educate patients and families about postoperative care
- Collaborate with surgeons and anesthesiologists to develop individualized care plans
- Keep detailed records of patients’ postoperative progress
- Respond quickly and effectively to any postoperative complications
- Transport patients to their rooms when they are stable
- Discharge patients when they are ready to leave the hospital
PACU RN Job Requirements
A PACU RN is a registered nurse who works in the post-anesthesia care unit of a hospital. They are responsible for the care of patients who have undergone surgery and are in the process of recovery. A PACU RN must have at least an Associate's Degree in Nursing, although many have a Bachelor's Degree. They must also be licensed by the state in which they practice. Experience is not required, but many employers prefer candidates with previous experience in a PACU or similar setting.
PACU RN Skills
- Assessing patients post-operatively
- Managing pain control
- Monitoring vital signs
- Providing emotional support
- Administering medications
- Checking for bleeding or other complications
- Changing dressings
- Removing drains and catheters
- Checking for proper functioning of equipment
- Educating patients and families about post-operative care
Related: Top PACU RN Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a PACU RN
A PACU RN is a registered nurse who works in the post-anesthesia care unit of a hospital. They provide care for patients who have just had surgery, and are responsible for monitoring their vital signs and ensuring they are comfortable. PACU RNs must be able to work quickly and efficiently, as patients in the PACU can experience complications from anesthesia.
To become a PACU RN, one must first obtain a nursing degree from an accredited institution. After passing the NCLEX-RN exam, individuals can then apply for a position in the PACU. Some hospitals may require additional certification in Critical Care Nursing or Perioperative Nursing. PACU RNs must have excellent communication and assessment skills, as well as the ability to work well under pressure.
Related: PACU RN Resume Example