Specialist Nurse, Post-Anaesthesia Care Unit (PACU) at Deloitte

Job Purpose

The Specialist Nurse, Post-Anaesthesia Care Unit (PACU) will play a critical role in providing high-quality post-operative care to patients recovering from cardiovascular, surgical and procedures in the Post-Anaesthesia Care Unit. The job holder is responsible for assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating patient care, ensuring a smooth transition from the operating room to the recovery room.

Core Responsibilities

Patient Assessment and Care

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of patients' physiological status upon arrival to the PACU, including vital signs, pain levels, and overall condition.
• Develop and implement individualized care plans based on patient needs and medical orders.
• Monitor patients' vital signs, respiratory status, and cardiovascular function.
• Administer medications and treatments as prescribed by the physician.
• Administer and titrate pain medications appropriately to manage postoperative pain effectively and minimize patient discomfort.
• Identify and manage post-operative complications such as bleeding, arrhythmias and respiratory diseases.
• Provide pain management interventions, including pharmacological and non-pharmacological techniques.

Procedural Support

• Assist with the induction and emergence of anesthesia.
• Position patients for surgery and maintain patient safety during procedures.
• Assist with airway management and ventilation as needed.
• Monitor and manage patient temperature and prevent hypothermia.
• Collaborate with the surgical team to ensure a smooth and efficient surgical process.

Emergency Response

• Respond promptly to medical emergencies, such as cardiac arrest or respiratory distress.
• Initiate advanced life support measures, including CPR and defibrillation.
• Administer emergency medications and treatments.

Patient Education and Discharge Planning

• Educate patients and their families about post-operative care, pain management, and discharge instructions.
• Coordinate discharge planning with the healthcare team to ensure a smooth transition to home or a rehabilitation facility.
• Provide emotional and psychological support to patients and families, addressing concerns and providing reassurance during recovery.

Safety and Compliance

•  Ensure compliance with established standards of care, guidelines, and protocols for PACU nursing practice.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of patient assessments, interventions, and responses to treatment.
• Adhere to strict infection prevention and control practices, including hand hygiene, aseptic technique, and proper disposal of sharps and biohazardous waste.
• Promptly report any adverse events or incidents to the appropriate authorities, including near misses and sentinel events.

Quality Improvement

• Participate in quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient outcomes and reduce complications.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of evidence-based practice guidelines.
• Collect and analyze data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.

Training and Professional Development

• Contribute to ongoing education programs for nursing staff and assist with training on cardiovascular care and anesthesia-related issues.
• Support the education and mentorship of junior nursing staff and students.
• Stay updated with research and evidence-based practices in PACU care.

Qualifications

Educational Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSc Nursing) or equivalent from a recognized institution.
• Completion of post-basic training in perioperative nursing is an advantage.

Professional Requirements

• Valid nursing license
• Membership in relevant medical associations
• Advanced Life Support (ALS), Post-Anaesthesia care or other relevant certification is an added advantage

Experience Requirements

• Minimum of 3-5 years’ experience in a critical care setting. Experience in PACU or recovery settings preferred
• Direct experience in surgical settings, particularly cardiovascular and other major surgeries
• Proficiency in recognizing and responding to post-operative complication

Knowledge Requirements

• Strong knowledge of cardiovascular anatomy, physiology, and common cardiovascular surgeries (e.g., valve replacement)
• Knowledge in managing cardiovascular conditions, surgical interventions, and anaesthesia-related recovery. 
• Expertise in airway management, monitoring techniques and emergency protocols

​Skill Requirements

• Effective communication skills to interact with patients, families, and healthcare team members.
•  Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to perform effectively in sensitive situations.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency in patient assessment and critical-thinking abilities to prioritize patient safety.
• Strong collaborative skills to work seamlessly within a fast-paced multidisciplinary environment.
• Good leadership skills to mentor junior staff and take initiative

​Personal Abilities

• Professional attitude towards work
• Shares the AMCE’s vision
• Proactive and organized
• Commitment to clinical governance / improving quality of patient care
• Has personal and professional credibility and commands the respect of colleagues and peers
• Supportive and approachable and capable of inspiring confidence in staff members
• Ability to manage stress and maintain composure in high-pressure situations
• High attention to detail 
• Openness to new ideas and continuous improvement
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• High levels of honesty and integrity
• Empathy and compassion for patients, with a focus on delivering patient-centred care