Charge Nurse PACU

Job description

Job Description: Charge Nurse – PACU
Position Summary:
The Charge Nurse in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) is a frontline leader responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the PACU, ensuring the highest quality of care for post-operative patients. This role combines clinical expertise, staff management, and administrative responsibilities to ensure safe, efficient, and patient-centered care during the recovery phase after surgery.

Key Responsibilities:
Patient Care Management:

Oversee the delivery of care to post-operative patients, ensuring timely assessment, monitoring, and management of vital signs, pain, and potential complications.

Provide advanced clinical support to PACU nurses in managing complex cases, emergencies, or deteriorating patients.

Collaborate with anesthesiologists, surgeons, and other healthcare professionals for optimal patient outcomes.

Leadership & Staff Supervision:

Act as the primary point of contact for PACU staff, providing leadership, mentorship, and clinical guidance.

Assign and adjust staff assignments based on patient acuity, staffing levels, and workflow demands.

Support the orientation and training of new staff and foster professional development among team members.

Operational Oversight:

Ensure compliance with PACU protocols, infection control measures, and patient safety standards.

Monitor equipment and supplies to ensure availability and functionality.

Coordinate PACU flow, including admission and discharge processes, to maintain efficiency.

Communication & Collaboration:

Facilitate effective communication within the PACU team and with other departments (e.g., OR, ICU, inpatient units).

Participate in multidisciplinary rounds and case reviews as needed.

Quality & Compliance:

Support continuous quality improvement initiatives and contribute to policy development.

Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the Electronic Health Record (EHR).

Ensure adherence to hospital policies, accreditation standards, and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN) preferred; Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) considered with relevant experience.

Licensure: Current RN license in the state of practice; BLS, ACLS, and PALS certification required.

Experience: Minimum 3-5 years of PACU or critical care experience; prior charge nurse or leadership experience preferred.

Skills:

Strong clinical judgment and decision-making skills.

Excellent communication, leadership, and team-building abilities.

Proficiency in EHR systems and understanding of PACU protocols.

• Fulltime role