• Duties of the RN opening PACU for the day include:
Check crash cart and 02 tank
Conducts and documents departmental audits
• Post operative care of the surgical patient includes:
Airway maintenance.
Stabilization of vital signs.
Safe emergence from anesthesia.
Control of pain, nausea and other conditions by administration of drugs, under the direction of physician orders.
Orientation to surroundings.
Administration of special equipment (i.e., ice bags, post-¬op shoes, slings).
Offer nourishments.
• Follows proper procedures regarding exposure to Category I tasks.
• Follows proper procedures for handling hazardous waste materials.
• Follows appropriate PACU policies and procedures.
• Accurately, timely and completely documents vital signs, nurse's notes, assessment and medications administered in/on the PACU record.
• Acknowledge and follows physicians' orders. (Both surgeons and anesthesiologists).
• Reviews discharge instructions and educates patient and/or responsible adult with appropriate information to alleviate fears and maintain optimal post op care in the home environment.
• Obtains discharge order from anesthesiologist or surgeon (if local anesthesia) prior to discharge.
• Makes Post Op calls of previous days' patients to check patient's condition. Records complications and document in Variance Reporting system.
• Assists with nerve blocks performed by anesthesiologist in the PACU area.
• Respects patient’s right to privacy, dignity and confidentiality.
• Is knowledgeable about and responsive to emergency situations, i.e. cardiac arrest, malignant hyperthermia, drug reactions, fire, disaster, etc.
• Reports and completes appropriate forms for incidents related to patients, visitors, and employees. Reports to immediate supervisor timely.
• Attends and participates in staff meetings and staff development programs, including mandatory ones.
• Participates in CQI process and activities.
• Assist with all other duties as the need arises or as assigned.
• Cleans stretchers after each patient and restocks supplies. Prepares PACU bay for next patient.
• Set priorities to facilitate the timely and efficient flow of patients throughout the day.
• Prepares and restocks the PACU area for the following day.
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