Registered Nurse Perianesthesia

Job Summary 

The Perianesthesia Nurse is a registered nurse responsible for the care of patients being prepared to undergo, or recovering from, anesthesia. The Perianesthesia Nurse is tasked with the medical management of each patient and has the skill and knowledge to address critical medical emergencies pre- and post-surgery.

Job Responsibilities

• Prepare patient for surgery or procedure. Ensure the patient chart is initiated, complete the patient assessment, confirm the procedure and/or surgical site, initiate patient IV, perform ordered labs, dispense ordered preop medications and fully document all information and care provided. 


• Provide instructions to patient and support persons as to what to expect throughout the surgery process. 


• Coordinate patient care needs with other disciplines to ensure continuity of care. 


• Monitor patient recovery from anesthesia and medical procedures. Regularly monitor and record patient vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, and respiration rate. 


• Constantly assess patient for adverse reactions to the anesthesia and respond appropriately. 


• Educate each patient on the potential for reactions or side effects of anesthesia. Provide post-procedure discharge instructions to the patient and authorized patient representative that include physical, psychological, social, safety and educational and needs of the patient. 


• Provide orientation and training of new employees as assigned.


• Function as testing personnel under CLIA1988 regulations as they relate to point of care testing as required. 


• Assist with the financial management of the designated area(s) by monitoring supply usage and waste. 


• Other duties as assigned.

Education Requirements

• Minimum: Associate Degree as a Registered Nurse from an accredited school of nursing


• Preferred: Bachelor's Degree as a Registered Nurse from an accredited school of nursing

Experience Requirements

• Minimum: Two (2) years previous ambulatory surgery, Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU), critical care and/or strong medical/surgical nursing experience


• Preferred: Five (5) or more years of above experience with Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse (CAPA) or Certified Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN).

License/Certification Requirements

• Registered Nurse valid to practice in the state of Indiana by date of hire or transfer to the position.


• Basic Life Safety (American Heart Association)


• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (American Heart Association)


• Pediatric Advanced Life Support or Emergency Nursing Pediatric Course Certification