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Entry Level Pacu Rn Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

The PACU nurses are also responsible for the management and evaluation of post anesthesia and postoperative complications including pain and nausea. The Registered Nurse in PACU holds the autonomy to ...

PACU RN Travel nurse jobs in Washington offer more than just competitive pay and top-tier facilities--they place you in one of the most stunning and diverse states in the U.S. From the rugged Pacific ...

RN ASC PACU Everett

Everett, WA · On-site

$29 - $52/hr

... as a Registered Nurse Preferred Qualification: * 2+ years of perioperative nursing (OR), post anesthesia care unit (PACU), ER or ICU experience Pay is based on several factors including but not ...

RN ASC PACU Everett

Everett, WA · On-site

$29 - $52/hr

... as a Registered Nurse Preferred Qualification: * 2+ years of perioperative nursing (OR), post anesthesia care unit (PACU), ER or ICU experience Pay is based on several factors including but not ...

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Entry Level Pacu Rn information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$1K

$2.6K

$3.9K

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

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average weekly pay for entry level pacu rn in Seattle, WA is $2,645.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $2,078.85 and $3,173.08 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 Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Pacu Rn jobs in Seattle, WA are:
RN /Registered Nurse UW Medical Center - Northwest PACU Per Diem

RN /Registered Nurse UW Medical Center - Northwest PACU Per Diem

University of Washington

Seattle, WA • On-site, Remote

$86.17/hr

Part-time

Posted 21 days ago


University Of Washington School Of Medicine rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

179th of 546 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Description
UW Medical Center-Northwest - has an outstanding opportunity for a per diem Registered Nurse for our PACU Department .
WORK SCHEDULE
• Days
• Evenings
Weekends
DEPARTMENT DESCRIPTION
Our PACU RNs provide pre-admission assessment and phase 1 post anesthesia care for our surgical patients. These nurses also provide surgical patient discharge teaching.
POSITION HIGHLINGTS
• Assessment and nursing diagnosis of patients
• Care planning
• Patient teaching
• Discharge and transfer planning
• Admission, discharge and transfer processes
REQUIREMENTS
• 2 years current recent Critical Care experience, Emergency or PACU Phase I and/or Phase II
• PACU experience preferred.
Active Washington State RN License or applicable Multistate RN license
ABOUT UW MEDICAL CENTER-NORTHWEST
UW Medical Center is an acute care hospital located in Seattle with two campuses: Montlake and Northwest. As the No. 1 hospital in Seattle and Washington State since 2012 (U.S. News & World Report) and nationally ranked in six specialties, UW Medical Center prides itself on compassionate patient care as well as its pioneering medical advances.
The UW Medical Center-Northwest campus offers emergency and inpatient and outpatient medical, surgical, and therapeutic care. It is located in north Seattle on a beautiful, easy-to-access 44-acre campus that includes the neighboring Northwest Outpatient Medical Center and Specialty Care Meridian Pavilion.
Teamwork. Community. Opportunity. Become part of our team. Join our mission to make life healthier for everyone in our community.
ABOUT UW MEDICINE - WHERE YOUR IMPACT GOES FURTHER
UW Medicine is Washington's only health system that includes a top-rated medical school and an internationally recognized research center. UW Medicine's mission is to improve the health of the public by advancing medical knowledge, providing outstanding primary and specialty care to the people of the region, and preparing tomorrow's physicians, scientists and other health professionals.
All across UW Medicine, our employees collaborate to perform the highest quality work with integrity and compassion and to create a respectful, welcoming environment where every patient, family, student and colleague is valued and honored. Nearly 29,000 healthcare professionals, researchers, and educators work in the UW Medicine family of organizations that includes: Harborview Medical Center, UW Medical Center - Montlake, UW Medical Center - Northwest, Valley Medical Center, UW Medicine Primary Care, UW Physicians, UW School of Medicine, and Airlift Northwest.
Become part of our team. Join our mission to make life healthier for everyone in our community.
Compensation, Benefits and Position Details
Pay Range Minimum:
$46.97 hourly
Pay Range Maximum:
$86.17 hourly
Other Compensation:
$5.00/hr nights$4.00/hr weekends$3.00/hr evenings$1.00/hr BSN$1.25/hr Nursing Certification
Benefits:
For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-temporary-per-diem-and-less-than-half-time/
Shift:
Alternate Work Shift (United States of America)
Temporary or Regular?
This is a temporary position
FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):
0.00%
Union/Bargaining Unit:
WSNA UWMC Northwest
About the UW
Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives - on our campuses, in our state and around the world.
UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty.
Our Commitment
The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.
To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu.
Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.

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