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Entry Level Pacu Rn Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

HAN Staff

RN - PACU

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

RN - PACU Registered Nurse - Health Advocates Network is urgently hiring PACU RNs with at least 2 years of recent experience! IMMEDIATE STARTS! * Travel packages up to $ 1,837 weekly * 12 hour DAY ...

Stability Healthcare

Travel RN PACU

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

Specialty: PACU - Post Anesthesia Care * Discipline: RN * Duration: 13 weeks * 36 hours per week * Shift: 12 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel Stability Healthcare is looking for a PACU RN ...

Colorwave Inc

PACU RN

Collierville, TN · On-site

$48K - $94K/yr

PACU RN Hospitals on Incredible Health are actively hiring and accepting applications in the Collierville, TN area for the following position: PACU RN. Nurses with experience in any of the following ...

Colorwave Inc

PACU RN

Union City, TN · On-site

$48K - $94K/yr

Pacu Rn Hospitals on Incredible Health are actively hiring and accepting applications in the Union City, TN area for the following position: Pacu Rn. Nurses with experience in any of the following ...

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Entry Level Pacu Rn information

See Tennessee salary details

$820

$2.1K

$3.1K

How much do entry level pacu rn jobs pay per week?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average weekly pay for entry level pacu rn in Tennessee is $2,110.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,657.69 and $2,530.77 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Entry Level PACU RNs?

Entry Level PACU RNs are registered nurses who work in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) and are at the beginning stages of their nursing careers. They are responsible for monitoring patients as they recover from anesthesia after surgery, assessing vital signs, managing pain, and ensuring patient safety. Entry level PACU RNs work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare staff to provide quality post-operative care. They typically receive on-the-job training in addition to their nursing education, and they must be licensed as registered nurses.

How to make an extra $2000 a month as a nurse?

An entry-level PACU RN can increase income by taking on overtime shifts, working per diem or weekend hours, or seeking higher-paying facilities. Developing specialized skills, obtaining certifications like ACLS or PALS, and gaining experience can also qualify for higher-paying assignments or travel nursing opportunities that offer additional compensation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level PACU RN, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level PACU RN, you need a solid understanding of post-anesthesia care, patient assessment, and basic life support, typically backed by an active RN license and BLS/ACLS certifications. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), PACU-specific monitoring equipment, and medication administration protocols is essential. Strong communication, vigilance, and the ability to remain calm under pressure distinguish high-performing PACU nurses. These skills are vital for ensuring patient safety, effective recovery, and smooth transitions after surgical procedures.

Is it hard to get into PACU nursing?

Entry level PACU RNs typically need a valid nursing license and some experience in acute care or surgical settings. Competition can vary, but strong clinical skills, certifications like ACLS, and a good understanding of post-anesthesia care improve job prospects. The role often requires adaptability and the ability to handle high-pressure situations.

Can I work PACU without ICU experience?

Entry Level PACU RNs typically do not require ICU experience, but they must have a valid RN license and relevant nursing skills. Prior experience in perioperative or surgical settings can be beneficial, and certifications like ACLS may be preferred. Employers often provide on-the-job training for PACU-specific procedures.

Can new grads start in PACU?

Entry-level PACU RNs can start in the post-anesthesia care unit if they have completed their nursing education and obtained licensure. Hospitals often prefer candidates with some clinical experience or relevant certifications like ACLS, but new graduates can be hired if they demonstrate strong clinical skills and a willingness to learn in the perioperative environment.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level PACU RNs during their initial months on the job?

As an entry level PACU (Post-Anesthesia Care Unit) RN, you may encounter challenges such as quickly assessing and responding to patients emerging from anesthesia, managing complex monitoring equipment, and prioritizing care for multiple patients with varying needs. Adapting to the fast-paced, high-acuity environment can be demanding, but most hospitals provide extensive orientation and mentorship to help new RNs build confidence. Collaborating closely with anesthesiologists, surgeons, and fellow nurses is essential for patient safety and effective care.

What is the difference between Entry Level Pacu Rn vs Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) Nurse?

AspectEntry Level Pacu RnPost Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) Nurse
CertificationsRN license, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS)RN license, BLS, ACLS
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, outpatient clinicsHospitals, surgical recovery units
Job FocusPost-surgical patient monitoring, recovery, vital signs managementMonitoring patients recovering from anesthesia, managing complications

Both roles require RN licensure, BLS, and ACLS certifications. Entry Level Pacu Rns and PACU Nurses work primarily in hospital recovery areas, focusing on patient recovery after surgery or anesthesia. The main difference is that 'Entry Level Pacu Rn' emphasizes the starting level of experience, while 'PACU Nurse' describes the role itself. Overall, they are similar roles with slight variations in terminology and experience level.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pacu Rn jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Pacu Rn jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Entry Level Pacu Rn jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Entry Level Pacu Rn job openings:
Entry Level Pacu Rn jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Pacu Rn job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $109,720 per year, or $52.8 per hour.
Travel Nurse RN - PACU - Post Anesthesia Care

Travel Nurse RN - PACU - Post Anesthesia Care

TRS Healthcare

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

TRS Healthcare is seeking a travel nurse RN PACU - Post Anesthesia Care for a travel nursing job in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: PACU - Post Anesthesia Care
  • Discipline: RN
  • Start Date: 08/03/2026
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 36 hours per week
  • Shift: 12 hours, days
  • Employment Type: Travel

TRS Healthcare Job ID #1481830. Pay package is based on 12 hour shifts and 36 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined. Posted job title: Post Anesthesia Care Unit Registered Nurse

About TRS Healthcare

TRS Healthcare has been a leader in the healthcare staffing industry for over 25 years, providing exceptional career opportunities for travel nurses and allied health professionals.


An RN-founded, woman-owned company, TRS Healthcare has team members in all 50 states. We recruit and support registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, surgical technicians, respiratory therapists, imaging technologists, laboratory specialists, and other experienced nursing and allied healthcare professionals.


We staff hundreds of healthcare facilities across the U.S. in urban, rural, and underserved areas, including multi-state hospital systems, critical access hospitals, rural community hospitals, long-term care facilities, trauma centers, standalone clinics, and more.


Learn more about TRS Healthcare at trshealthcare.com.



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About TRS Healthcare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

For over 25 years, TRS has been committed to giving our nurses the support and opportunities they need to reach their goals, whether they are financial, career-oriented, or geographical. We’re here to help you achieve success, every step of the way!

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Springdale, AR, US

Year founded

1996

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