ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Pacu Rn Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

National Staffing Solutions

CRNA

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

Provide post-anesthesia care and pain management * Collaborate with anesthesiologists, surgeons ... Active, unrestricted RN and APRN licenses in the practicing state * Current BLS and ACLS ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPacu Rn JobsEntry Level Pacu Rn JobsEntry Level Pacu Rn Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Entry Level Pacu Rn information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$878

$2.3K

$3.4K

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

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average weekly pay for entry level pacu rn in Raleigh, NC is $2,259.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,775.00 and $2,711.54 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 Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Pacu Rn jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
Entry Level Pacu Rn jobs near you
FT PREOP/PACU Registered Nurse

FT PREOP/PACU Registered Nurse

Surgery Partners

Durham, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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

Surgery Partners rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

189th of 880 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Southpoint Surgery Center (SPSC), an affiliate of North Carolina Specialty Hospital, is a new Ambulatory Surgery Center located between Raleigh and Durham in the Durham-Southpoint area. SPSC will provide a differentiated outpatient delivery model focused on providing high-quality, cost-effective solutions for surgical and related ancillary care for patients. SPSC is a multi-specialty 22,298 sq. ft. facility accommodating the following: Ortho, Spine, Ophthalmology, ENT, GYN, General, Urology, Plastics, Podiatry, Vascular, and Pain. At SPSC you will find highly motivated team-players and a welcoming team-oriented staff.
Why join North Carolina Specialty Hospital?
  • Award Winning Hospital for Special Surgery
  • 5 Star CMS rated facility for patient experience
  • Positive Work culture
  • Career growth opportunities
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance, Life and Disability Insurance
  • Paid Time Off
  • 401k Employer Match
  • Tuition Assistance

Job Summary:
The primary objective of this position is to assure the delivery of comprehensive, safe, effective, cost effective and appropriate nursing care for patients across the age continuum in accordance with established hospital policy, nursing practice standards. Under minimum supervision, directs and/or provides professional nursing care for an assigned group of patients across the age continuum (4 weeks to geriatric). Utilizes the nursing process for assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation to direct or provide nursing care. Provides supervision and guidance to other members of the team; and may be authorized, in the absence of the manager, to make decisions affecting the PACU.
Job Duties:
  • Utilizes the nursing process to provide quality patient care according to established standards of care which includes planning, implementing, evaluating, and adjusting plan of care. Participates in the development of patient plan of care to include patient problems, goals, evaluations, and interventions; reports symptoms and significant changes in patient's condition to appropriate personnel
  • Collaborates and coordinates patient's discharge planning needs and readiness for discharge with other members of the care team.
  • Demonstrates appropriate application of age specific standards, policies, and procedures and guidelines in caring for adolescent, adult, and geriatric patients: follows age specific standards in administering medications based on patient's age; follows age specific standards of care during altered states of consciousness related to analgesia, conscious sedation or anesthesia; uses age specific standards, policies and procedures and guidelines to perform treatments and procedures that are routine for unit/clinic based on patient's age.
  • Incorporates cultural and developmental needs into plan of care: in collaboration with the patient/family, and in a developmentally and culturally appropriate manner, implements the plan of care; demonstrates competency in the provision of nursing care according to established standards of nursing practice and in developmentally appropriate manner.
  • Demonstrates critical thinking skills, ability to provide and delegate appropriate activities to staff based on patient assessment, complexity of the task, level of competence of staff and/or certification/licensure requirements and the requirements to deliver care in a safe efficient manner maximizing positive outcomes for the patient.
  • Provides documentation of patient care in the patient record according to established standards of nursing care.
  • Participates in performance improvement activities which include collecting, analyzing data to identify quantifiable measures to maintain quality and the promotion of desired outcomes. Also includes participation in development of patient care delivery systems, standards, policy and procedures, and problem-solving teams.
  • Completes additional duties as needed and assigned.

Skills & Abilities:
  • Able to work independently and met established deadlines
  • Able to make sound reasonable decisions
  • Highly organized
  • Ability to concentrate on many detailed requests despite numerous interruptions
  • Demonstrates accountability, professionalism, openness, receptive to change, creativity and innovative
  • Ability to identify and calmly handle inherently stressful situation with tact
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Ability to develop excellent working relationships with consumers and staff
  • Seeks guidance, direction and assistance when needed
  • Ability to be flexible and take on new responsibilities

Experience, Training, & Education
  • Graduate of an accredited school of professional nursing required; Associates degree required, BSN preferred
  • Current licensure in the State of North Carolina or compact multi-state RN license required
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification through American Heart Association (AHA) or American Red Cross (ARC) is required upon hire
  • ACLS and PALS certifications through American Heart Association (AHA) or American Red Cross (ARC) must be obtained within 6 months of employment. Both certifications are preferred on hire
  • A minimum of 1 year previous perioperative nursing experience in a hospital setting is preferred
  • One year of critical care nursing experience is required

Our employees are critical to our success and we value their contributions. North Carolina Specialty Hospital offers a competitive compensation and benefits package and an opportunity to grow and develop your career in an environment that values employee ideas and diversity. Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Protected Veterans/Disabled. We maintain a drug-free workplace and require pre-employment drug screening and background check.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What Surgery Partners employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply