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Entry Level Pacu Rn Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sinai Chicago

Post Anesthesia RN - PACU

Chicago, IL · On-site

$31.62 - $39.52/hr

Registered Nurse - PACU Sinai Health System - Level 1 Trauma Center, is a Chicago-based not-for-profit organization, comprised of seven member organizations: Mount Sinai Hospital, Holy Cross Hospital ...

Sinai Chicago

Post Anesthesia RN - PACU

Chicago, IL · On-site

Registered Nurse - PACU Sinai Health System - Level 1 Trauma Center, is a Chicago-based not-for-profit organization, comprised of seven member organizations: Mount Sinai Hospital, Holy Cross Hospital ...

Sinai Chicago

Post Anesthesia RN - PACU

Chicago, IL · On-site

Registered Nurse - PACU Sinai Health System - Level 1 Trauma Center, is a Chicago-based not-for-profit organization, comprised of seven member organizations: Mount Sinai Hospital, Holy Cross Hospital ...

Sinai Chicago

Post Anesthesia RN - PACU

Chicago, IL · On-site

$31.62 - $39.52/hr

Registered Nurse - PACU Sinai Health System - Level 1 Trauma Center, is a Chicago-based not-for-profit organization, comprised of seven member organizations: Mount Sinai Hospital, Holy Cross Hospital ...

Zack Group Healthcare Staffing

RN - PACU

Chicago, IL · On-site

PACU RN Opportunity in Chicago, Illinois Zack Group is currently seeking PACU RNs for positions in Chicago, Illinois. The ideal candidate will possess a current state or equivalent compact license.

Zack Group Healthcare Staffing

RN - PACU

Glenview, IL · On-site

PACU RN Opportunity in Glenview Nas, Illinois Zack Group is currently seeking PACU RNs for positions in Glenview NAS, Illinois. The ideal candidate will possess a current state or equivalent compact ...

O.R Staffing Solutions

Be Seen First

Per Diem PACU RN - Chicago

Chicago, IL · On-site

$56 - $57/hr

Here you go! PACU RN - Per Diem | $56-$57/hr We are seeking PACU RNs to join our team on a per diem basis in the city of Chicago! OR Staffing Solutions is a Healthcare staffing agency specializing in ...

Swedish Cherry Hill Campus

RN - PACU

Chicago, IL · On-site

$2.2K/wk

Details Client Name Swedish Hospital Job Type Travel Offering Nursing Profession RN Specialty PACU Job ID 37477266 Job Title RN - PACU Weekly Pay $2286.0 Shift Details Shift 4x10 days Scheduled Hours ...

New

United Surgical Partners

PACU RN

New Lenox, IL · On-site

RN PACU Bucks County Surgical Suites Highpoint PACU Registered Nurse (PACU RN) The PACU Registered Nurse provides continuity and quality nursing care for all patients, with continual evaluation of ...

Mission Hospital

RN - PACU

Glenview, IL · On-site

$2.1K/wk

Details Client Name Glenbrook Hospital Job Type Travel Offering Nursing Profession RN Specialty PACU Job ID 37235516 Job Title RN - PACU Weekly Pay $2133.33 Shift Details Shift 8 hour variable shifts ...

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All JobsPacu Rn JobsEntry Level Pacu Rn JobsEntry Level Pacu Rn Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Pacu Rn information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$931

$2.4K

$3.6K

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

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average weekly pay for entry level pacu rn in Chicago, IL is $2,394.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,882.69 and $2,873.08 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Pacu Rn jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Pacu Rn jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 12% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $124,533 per year, or $59.9 per hour.
Post Anesthesia RN - PACU

Post Anesthesia RN - PACU

Mount Sinai Hospital

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Mount Sinai rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 283 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 884 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Registered Nurse - PACU
Sinai Health System - Level 1 Trauma Center, is a Chicago-based not-for-profit organization, comprised of seven member organizations: Mount Sinai Hospital, Holy Cross Hospital, Sinai Children's Hospital, Schwab Rehabilitation Hospital, Sinai Medical Group, Sinai Community Institute and Sinai Urban Health Institute. The system has over 800 physicians on its hospital medical staffs, 695 licensed beds, 100,000+ annual emergency department patient visits and eight physician residency training programs.
GENERAL SUMMARY:
The PACU Registered Nurse provides direct and indirect patient care under the direction of the Patient Care Coordinators
Collaborates with other members of the surgical team to ensure the highest standard of care
Accepts assignment to care for, take responsibility for, and advocate for an individual patient by coordinating efforts of the surgical team
The PACU Registered Nurse addresses the physiological, psychological, socio-cultural, and spiritual responses of the patient while maintaining an environment that ensures safety and compliance with administrative policies and procedures
The PACU Registered Nurse has the requisite skills and knowledge to assess, diagnose, plan, intervene, and evaluate the outcomes of interventions
BENEFITS:
Medical / Dental / Vision
Tuition Reimbursement
Continuing Education classes offered
PTO
403 b with matching contributions
EDUCATION:
The PACU Registered Nurse will be a graduate of an accredited RN School of Nursing
LICENSE / CERTIFICATION:
The PACU Registered Nurse will have current RN Licensure in the State of Illinois
The PACU Registered Nurse will have a valid CPR Certification
ACLS & PALS are both required to have been obtained by your 6th month of employment with SHS. SHS will pay for you to obtain your ACLS & PALS but not to maintain it. If your ACLS & PALS has lapsed, SHS will pay for you to renew it on a one time basis.
Sedation Credentialing preferred
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
1 year of nursing experience within PACU or Critical Care.
2 years of Critical Care experience.
Basic EKG Interpretation

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