Every year, 40 million people in the United States find themselves under the skilled and compassionate care of PACU nurses, taking care of their post-operative needs.
The job outlook for PACU nurses is promising. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 6% growth in registered nurse employment from 2021 to 2031 and the projected registered nurse in PACU job growth rate is 6% from 2018-2028.
PACU stands for Post Anesthesia Care Unit in nursing. PACU nurses, also known as post-anesthesia care nurses, are registered nurses who specialize in caring for patients after surgery. They work in the PACU, or recovery unit.
PACU nurses monitor each patient as they recover from anesthesia and regain consciousness, ensuring a smooth transition from the operating room to the recovery phrase. PACU nurses monitor vital signs, spend time administering medication, handle common side effects of post-surgery care such as pain levels, nausea, and difficulty breathing, providing reassurance to patients and their families during recovery (although that may not officially be part of the PACU nurse job description).
In addition to monitoring of vital signs and blood pressure, PACU nurses assist patients with standing, guide them through the discharge process, and change dressings, depending on hospital protocol. While a good PACU nurse values human connection, they often have limited time interacting with patients while conscious.
As the first point of contact in the recovery room, PACU nurses understand the importance of providing comfort and empathy to patients who may be experiencing fear, discomfort, or agitation after major surgery. With their expertise and dedication, PACU nurses contribute significantly to the overall well-being and successful outcomes of surgical patient care.
PACU travel nurses perform the same job duties but for different hospitals across the country based on assignment and contract length. One of the many benefits of being a travel nurse is the ability to make more money because of a higher average salary, or to choose between longer and short-term assignments for work-life balance.
As a traveling post anesthesia care nurse, you can make up to $3,885 in gross weekly pay. Depending on the cost of living and if you have a tax-free housing stipend, this money can stretch so you can have more to live the travel nurse life you truly want.
Travel PACU nurses work in various settings such as acute care hospitals, where they care for patients who are either currently admitted or will be admitted following surgery. Others may work in outpatient facilities or ambulatory care centers. In these surgical centers, surgeries are usually conducted during daytime hours, and patients are discharged home afterward.
The availability and operating hours of PACUs may vary depending on the size and type of healthcare employers and facilities.
If you want to become a traveling PACU RN, there are a few steps you'll need to take.
To any future PACU nurses, there are several options for your training. You can choose to pursue a nursing diploma, an associate degree, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Many nursing students find that getting a bachelor's degree through BSN programs provide them with extra training and job stability. Online programs also offer flexibility in scheduling, perfect for full-time or part-time students to learn specialized skills in anesthesia.
Once you've completed your nursing degree or diploma, the next hurdle is passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), a requirement to become a registered nurse (RN).
Achieving a passing score on the NCLEX means you're officially a registered nurse, halfway down the path to become a PACU nurse!
Building your experience as a registered nurse is crucial before transitioning to a PACU nurse role. Most states require at least a couple of years working in a hospital setting to gain practical know-how. This time allows you to learn the ropes and become comfortable in a clinical nursing environment.
Taking advantage of opportunities to work in critical care or ICU units can be particularly valuable for aspiring PACU nurses who want direct clinical experience in a fast-paced environment. That kind of on the job experience can be a game-changer.
Once you've put in your time and had practice as a permanent staff nurse with post-operative care experience, you can start applying for travel jobs in your dream states. It's a chance to spread your wings, embrace new challenges, and experience different healthcare settings. The world is your oyster!
By following these steps, you can set yourself on the path to become a PACU nurse.
PACU nurses possess a unique set of skills that make them invaluable in the healthcare industry. Like other registered nurses, critical thinking skills allow them to swiftly analyze and assess patients' conditions and post-operative symptoms, ensuring prompt and effective care.
A calm demeanor helps create a soothing environment for patients as they recover from surgery. PACU nurses should also have strong communication skills, patience in answering questions, and be able to provide essential care information to their patient and their loved ones, easing any concerns they may have. Their expertise in these areas ensures that patients receive the highest level of care and support during this critical phase.
PACU nurses typically possess essential certifications such as Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS). However, if you want to enhance your professional qualifications, consider obtaining additional certifications like the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and becoming a Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN) or a Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse (CAPA).
A CPAN certification or perianesthesia nursing certification are great ways for any healthcare professional to expand your knowledge and prepare to care for post-operative patients.
These certifications can expand your knowledge and open up new opportunities for your career.
PACU nursing can be stressful due to the high acuity and fast-paced nature of the environment. Registered nurses in the PACU must be skilled in assessing and managing patients recovering from anesthesia, as well as handling emergent situations.
However, the level of stress can vary. It's important to take care of yourself and prioritize your mental health as a PACU nurse.
There are many PACU nurse jobs in different states. However, a few states have some of the highest gross weekly pay including Oregon, California, New York, and Massachusetts. Taking travel PACU nurse jobs here may mean more money in the long run.
Unlike the PACU which specializes in post-anesthesia care, the PCU stands for Progressive Care Unit. Each specialty area focuses on critical care for patients, but while PACU patients are specifically recovering from anesthesia, the PCU is for all patients who need a level of care somewhere between the regular hospital floor and the ICU. Often, patients are moved to the PCU after an ICU stay.
Ready to take the next step on your journey? Marketplace is here to connect you with the perfect job opportunity. So, why wait?
Begin your search today and discover the exciting possibilities that await you in the world of PACU nursing. Find your next PACU RN assignment on Marketplace today.