## Role Overview The Same Day Surgery/PACU (Post-Anesthesia Care Unit) Registered Nurse (RN) at WVU Medicine's Berkeley Medical Center (BMC) plays a critical role in providing comprehensive care to patients undergoing surgical procedures. This position demands a highly skilled and compassionate nurse who can effectively manage patients in both the pre-operative and post-operative phases. The RN will utilize their clinical expertise to assess patient conditions, implement care plans, administer medications, and ensure patient safety and comfort. This role requires the RN to collaborate closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to deliver coordinated and patient-centered care. The RN will be responsible for monitoring vital signs, managing pain, and providing emotional support to patients and their families. They will also educate patients on post-operative care instructions and potential complications. **Key Responsibilities:** * Performing pre-operative assessments and preparing patients for surgery. * Monitoring patients in the PACU, ensuring stable vital signs and managing pain. * Administering medications and treatments as prescribed. * Documenting patient care accurately and efficiently. * Collaborating with the surgical team to ensure optimal patient outcomes. * Providing patient and family education on post-operative care. * Responding to emergencies and implementing appropriate interventions. * Maintaining a safe and clean environment. ## A Day in the Life A typical day for a Same Day Surgery/PACU RN at BMC is fast-paced and dynamic. The day begins with reviewing patient schedules and preparing the PACU for incoming patients. The RN will then conduct pre-operative assessments, ensuring patients are medically stable and ready for surgery. This involves reviewing medical histories, assessing allergies, and verifying medications. Following surgery, the RN will monitor patients in the PACU, closely observing their vital signs, pain levels, and overall condition. They will administer medications as needed, manage pain, and provide comfort measures. The RN will also educate patients and their families on post-operative care instructions, including wound care, medication management, and potential complications. Throughout the day, the RN will collaborate with the surgical team, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, and surgical technicians, to ensure seamless patient care. They will communicate any concerns or changes in patient condition promptly and effectively. The day concludes with documenting patient care accurately and preparing the PACU for the next day's schedule. ## Why Berkeley Medical Center? Berkeley Medical Center is a leading healthcare provider in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia. It offers a wide range of services, including surgical, medical, and emergency care. BMC is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care and is accredited by The Joint Commission. Working at BMC provides numerous benefits, including: * A supportive and collaborative work environment. * Opportunities for professional growth and development. * Competitive salary and benefits package. * Access to state-of-the-art medical technology. * A chance to make a difference in the lives of patients and their families. Berkeley County, West Virginia, offers a high quality of life with affordable housing, excellent schools, and a variety of recreational activities. The area is known for its natural beauty and proximity to major metropolitan areas. ## Career Path The Same Day Surgery/PACU RN position at BMC provides a solid foundation for career advancement within WVU Medicine. With experience and additional certifications, RNs can pursue opportunities such as: * Charge Nurse: Overseeing the daily operations of the PACU and providing leadership to the nursing team. * Clinical Nurse Specialist: Providing expert clinical consultation and education to nurses and other healthcare professionals. * Nurse Manager: Managing the PACU, including staffing, budgeting, and quality improvement initiatives. * Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN): Pursuing advanced education to become a Nurse Practitioner or Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. WVU Medicine is committed to supporting the professional growth of its employees and offers a variety of training and development programs. ## Salary and Benefits The salary for a Same Day Surgery/PACU RN at BMC is competitive and commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: * Health insurance (medical, dental, vision) * Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays) * Retirement plan with employer matching * Life insurance * Disability insurance * Tuition reimbursement * Employee assistance program ## WVU Medicine Culture WVU Medicine is committed to creating a culture of excellence, teamwork, and patient-centered care. Employees are valued for their contributions and are encouraged to participate in decision-making processes. WVU Medicine promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion and provides equal opportunities for all employees. The organization is committed to creating a welcoming and respectful environment for patients, families, and staff. ## How to Apply To apply for the Same Day Surgery/PACU RN position at Berkeley Medical Center, please click the "Apply" button located at the top of this page. Complete the application form and upload your resume and cover letter. ## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) **1. What are the minimum qualifications for this position?** The minimum qualifications include a current RN license in West Virginia or a multi-state RN license through the enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), BLS certification within 30 days of hire, and one year of nursing experience. **2. What are the key responsibilities of a Same Day Surgery/PACU RN?** Key responsibilities include performing pre-operative assessments, monitoring patients in the PACU, administering medications, documenting patient care, collaborating with the surgical team, and providing patient and family education. **3. What is the typical work schedule for this position?** The work schedule may vary depending on the needs of the department, but typically involves full-time hours with rotating shifts, including days, evenings, and weekends. **4. What opportunities are there for professional development?** WVU Medicine offers a variety of professional development opportunities, including tuition reimbursement, certification programs, and leadership training. **5. What is the work environment like at Berkeley Medical Center?** Berkeley Medical Center provides a supportive and collaborative work environment with a focus on patient-centered care. **6. Is relocation assistance available for this position?** Relocation assistance may be available for eligible candidates. **7. Is there a sign-on bonus for this position?** A sign-on bonus may be available for eligible candidates. **8. What is the dress code for nurses at Berkeley Medical Center?** The dress code typically involves scrubs, which are provided by the hospital. **9. What is the patient-to-nurse ratio in the PACU?** The patient-to-nurse ratio in the PACU is typically 1:1 or 1:2, depending on the acuity of the patients. **10. What is the process for onboarding new nurses at Berkeley Medical Center?** The onboarding process includes orientation to the hospital and department, training on policies and procedures, and mentorship from experienced nurses.