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Pacu Nurse Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Specialty: PreOp / PACU - Post Anesthesia Care * Discipline: RN * Start Date: ASAP * Duration: 14 weeks * 36 hours per week * Shift: 12 hours * Employment Type: Travel About the Position Specialty:

Specialty: PreOp / PACU - Post Anesthesia Care * Discipline: RN * Start Date: ASAP * Duration: 14 weeks * 36 hours per week * Shift: 12 hours * Employment Type: Travel About the Position Specialty:

Specialty: PreOp / PACU - Post Anesthesia Care * Discipline: RN * Start Date: ASAP * Duration: 14 weeks * 36 hours per week * Shift: 12 hours * Employment Type: Travel About the Position Specialty:

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Pacu Nurse information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$24

$38

$70

How much do pacu nurse jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for pacu nurse in Rochester, MN is $38.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.87 and $42.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PACU nurse?

PACU Nurses, or Post Anesthesia Care Unit Nurses, are registered nurses who specialize in caring for patients recovering from anesthesia after surgery or other medical procedures. They monitor vital signs, manage pain, and watch for any complications as patients regain consciousness. PACU Nurses play a critical role in ensuring patient safety and comfort during the immediate post-operative period. Their expertise allows them to respond quickly to any changes in a patient's condition, making them essential members of the surgical team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PACU nurse, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PACU Nurse, you need strong skills in post-anesthesia patient assessment, airway management, and acute care, typically supported by an active RN license and experience in perioperative or critical care nursing. Familiarity with patient monitoring systems, pain management protocols, and advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) certification is essential. Attention to detail, quick decision-making, and compassionate communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure patient safety, rapid recovery, and effective response to complications in the high-stakes post-anesthesia care environment.

What are some common challenges PACU nurses face during patient recovery, and how can they be managed?

PACU (Post-Anesthesia Care Unit) nurses frequently encounter challenges such as managing patients with varying responses to anesthesia, monitoring for post-operative complications, and addressing pain or nausea. Rapid changes in patient status require strong assessment skills and the ability to respond quickly to emergencies. Collaboration with anesthesiologists, surgeons, and other team members is essential to ensure safe and effective recovery. Ongoing education and clear communication with patients and families also help PACU nurses provide high-quality care and manage these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Pacu Nurse vs Scrub Nurse?

AspectPacu NurseScrub Nurse
CertificationsRN license, PACU certification often preferredRN license, OR or surgical tech certification optional
Work EnvironmentPost-anesthesia recovery units in hospitalsOperating rooms during surgeries in hospitals
Employer & IndustryHospitals, surgical centers, outpatient clinicsHospitals, surgical centers, outpatient facilities
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Pacu Nurse and a Scrub Nurse lies in their roles during surgical procedures. Pacu Nurses focus on patient recovery after anesthesia in the post-anesthesia care unit, while Scrub Nurses assist during surgery by preparing instruments and maintaining a sterile environment. Both roles require RN licensure, but their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly, making each essential in different phases of surgical care.

What are popular job titles related to Pacu Nurse jobs in Rochester, MN?

For Pacu Nurse jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Pacu Nurse jobs in Rochester, MN look for?

The top searched job categories for Pacu Nurse jobs in Rochester, MN are:

What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Pacu Nurse jobs?

Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Pacu Nurse job openings:

Infographic showing various Pacu Nurse job openings in Rochester, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,937 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

Travel Ambulatory RN

Prime Staffing

Rochester, MN โ€ข On-site

Contractor

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Prime Staffing is seeking a travel nurse RN PreOp / PACU - Post Anesthesia Care for a travel nursing job in Rochester, Minnesota.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: PreOp / PACU - Post Anesthesia Care
  • Discipline: RN
  • Start Date: ASAP
  • Duration: 14 weeks
  • 36 hours per week
  • Shift: 12 hours
  • Employment Type: Travel

About the Position
Specialty: Ambulatory Registered Nurse
Experience: 1+ year of outpatient/clinic or ambulatory care experience preferred
License: Active State or Compact RN License
Certifications: BLS โ€“ AHA


Must-Have: Patient assessment, triage, care coordination, EMR documentation skills
Description: The RN โ€“ Ambulatory provides patient-centered nursing care in a clinic or outpatient setting. Responsibilities include health education, chronic disease management, medication administration, and supporting procedures. Works closely with physicians and interdisciplinary staff to ensure efficient patient flow. Onboarding may take 2โ€“4 weeks depending on document submission and clearances.

Requirements

Required for Onboarding:

  • Active RN License
  • BLS

Prime Staffing Job ID #37620407. Pay package is based on 12 hour shifts and 36.0 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined. Posted job title: RN:Ambulatory,07:00:00-19:00:00

About Prime Staffing

At Prime Staffing, we understand the importance of finding the perfect fit for both our clients and candidates. Prime Staffing utilizes a unique matchmaking approach, providing the most qualified contingent staffing to our clients, and the most competitive contracts to our workforce. Our experienced team takes the time to get to know both our clients and candidates, their needs, and preferences, to ensure that each placement is a success.

We offer a wide range of staffing services including temporary, temp-to-perm, and direct hire placements. Our extensive network of qualified candidates includes nurses, allied healthcare professionals, corporate support professionals and executives.