Job Title: Pre- and Post-Operative Registered Nurse (Pre- and Post-Op RN)**

Job Summary:

A Pre- and Post-Operative Registered Nurse (Pre- and Post-Op RN) provides specialized care to patients before and after surgical procedures, ensuring they are well-prepared for surgery and closely monitored during recovery. The Pre- and Post-Op RN focuses on patient education, pre-operative preparation, post-operative recovery, pain management, and ensuring patients are safe and comfortable throughout their surgical journey.

Key Responsibilities:

Pre-Operative Responsibilities:

• Assess patients’ health status, including vital signs, medical history, and physical condition, to determine surgical readiness.
• Educate patients and families about surgical procedures, anesthesia, post-operative expectations, and potential risks.
• Administer pre-operative medications and treatments as prescribed, including pain management and infection prevention.
• Ensure proper preparation for surgery, including completing pre-surgical checklists, consent forms, and documenting patient information.
• Collaborate with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare team members to develop and implement pre-operative care plans.
• Monitor patients for any pre-operative complications or risks, such as infections, blood pressure changes, or abnormal lab results.

Post-Operative Responsibilities:

• Monitor and assess patients’ recovery status, including vital signs, pain levels, and response to anesthesia.
• Administer post-operative medications, including pain management, antibiotics, and anti-nausea medications.
• Manage post-surgical drains, wound care, and IV therapy as needed.
• Educate patients and families about post-operative care, including wound care, pain management, mobility, and signs of potential complications.
• Collaborate with surgeons and other healthcare providers to monitor and adjust post-operative care plans based on patient progress.
• Recognize and respond to signs of complications such as infections, bleeding, respiratory distress, or adverse reactions.
• Ensure safe transitions of care, including discharge planning and patient education on at-home care and follow-up appointments.
• Maintain accurate documentation of patient assessments, interventions, and progress in accordance with surgical care standards.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred; Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) accepted.
• Licensure:
  • Valid Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of practice.
• Certification:
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification preferred.
  • Certified Post-Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN) preferred for Post-Op RNs.