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

Health Advocates Network

RN - PACU

Glenview, IL · 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 $ **2,413 ** weekly * 8 ...

United Surgical Partners

RN PACU

Lincolnwood, IL · On-site

$36.22 - $54.33/hr

RN PACU North Shore Surgical Center Welcome to North Shore Surgical Center At North Shore Surgical Center, we believe health and care are inseparable. We focus on offering a high quality, service ...

Trinity Health

Registered Nurse - RN - PACU

Maywood, IL · On-site

$32.90 - $57.06/hr

Post Anesthesia Care Unit RN The Post Anesthesia Care Unit is a critical care area where patients are monitored and cared for immediately after undergoing surgery and anesthesia. The inpatient PACU ...

Prime Healthcare

Registered Nurse - PACU

Joliet, IL · On-site

$35.70 - $54.11/hr

Joliet, IL The PACU RN is accountable directly to the OR Charge Nurse and the Director of Surgical Services, and indirectly to the House Supervisor. The Registered Nurse is responsible for the ...

Prime Healthcare

Registered Nurse - PACU

Joliet, IL · On-site

$35.70 - $54.11/hr

Joliet, IL Responsibilities The PACU RN is accountable directly to the OR Charge Nurse and the Director of Surgical Services, and indirectly to the House Supervisor. The Registered Nurse is ...

Insight

REGISTERED NURSE - RECOVERY ROOM/PACU

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30 - $47/hr

Our facility seeks a PACU RN to meticulously observe and treat our post-anesthesia care unit patients, ensuring that they recover properly after a surgery or procedure that requires anesthesia. Our ...

Insight

REGISTERED NURSE - RECOVERY ROOM/PACU

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30 - $47/hr

Our facility seeks a PACU RN to meticulously observe and treat our post-anesthesia care unit patients, ensuring that they recover properly after a surgery or procedure that requires anesthesia. Our ...

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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 15, 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.
RN - PACU

RN - PACU

Health Advocates Network

Glenview, IL • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

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 $ **2,413 ** weekly

  • 8 hour ROTATING shifts available

  • 13 week contracts available

  • Specialty: PACU Registered Nurse (RN)

Requirements:

  • Active **IL ** State or Compact Registered Nurse License if applicable

  • Valid BLS

  • Graduate of an Accredited School of Nursing

  • Additional certifications may be required

Benefits We Offer:

  • Competitive pay rates, Referral Bonus, Medical, Dental and Vision. Travel reimbursement and per diem allowances, Employee discounts, educational opportunities, and more!

To apply for this job now or to find out more about other opportunities with Health Advocates Network, Inc. reply to this posting, contact us at travel@hanstaff.com or call/text 551-501-6061. We can provide you unparalleled access to exciting career opportunities.

Health Advocates Network, Inc . is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants shall receive consideration for employment without regard to any legally protected basis protected by applicable federal or state law except where a bona fide occupational qualification applies.

Refer a Registered Nurse for a $1,000.00 bonus opportunity!

Health Advocates Network, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants shall receive consideration for employment without regard to any legally protected basis under applicable federal, state or local law, except where a bona fide occupational qualification applies. EOE including Veterans/Disability

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