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Pacu Rn Jobs in Des Moines, IA (NOW HIRING)

DMOS

PACU/ARD RN Weekdays

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

In Post Op: Post-anesthesia care unit or PACU nurses care for patients who are recovering from ... Unrestricted IA RN license, BLS. ACLS and PALS preferred. Experience in a similar related industry ...

DMOS

PACU/ARD RN Weekdays

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

In Post Op: Post-anesthesia care unit or PACU nurses care for patients who are recovering from ... Unrestricted IA RN license, BLS. ACLS and PALS preferred. Experience in a similar related industry ...

DMOS

PACU/ARD RN Weekdays

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

In Post Op: Post-anesthesia care unit or PACU nurses care for patients who are recovering from ... Unrestricted IA RN license, BLS. ACLS and PALS preferred. Experience in a similar related industry ...

DMOS

PACU/ARD RN Weekdays

Urbandale, IA · On-site

In Post Op: Post-anesthesia care unit or PACU nurses care for patients who are recovering from ... Unrestricted IA RN license, BLS. ACLS and PALS preferred. Experience in a similar related industry ...

DMOS

PACU/ARD RN Weekdays

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$70 - $100/hr

In Post Op: Post-anesthesia care unit or PACU nurses care for patients who are recovering from ... Unrestricted IA RN license, BLS. ACLS and PALS preferred. Experience in a similar related industry ...

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All JobsPacu Rn JobsPacu Rn Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Pacu Rn information

See Des Moines, IA salary details

$882

$2.3K

$3.4K

How much do pacu rn jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average weekly pay for pacu rn in Des Moines, IA is $2,268.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,782.69 and $2,721.15 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PACU RN?

PACU RNs, or Post Anesthesia Care Unit Registered Nurses, are specialized nurses who care for patients recovering from anesthesia after surgery or other medical procedures. They monitor vital signs, manage pain, and watch for complications as patients wake up from anesthesia. PACU RNs work closely with anesthesiologists and surgeons to ensure patients transition safely from surgery to recovery. Their role is critical in identifying and addressing any immediate post-operative needs or emergencies.

What does a PACU RN do?

As a PACU RN, your responsibilities are to monitor post-anesthesia care unit patients and ensure they recover properly from anesthesia after inpatient or outpatient surgeries or procedures. PACU RNs have a range of post-operative duties, including checking and changing bandages, administering post-operative medications, such as painkillers or antibiotics, and providing patients and their families with information about care after they leave the recovery room. PACU RNs address any issues with recovery and collaborate with physicians or surgeons whenever necessary.

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

To thrive as a PACU RN, you need strong knowledge of post-anesthesia care, patient assessment, and acute care nursing, supported by an active RN license and often ACLS and PALS certifications. Familiarity with monitoring equipment, electronic health records (EHRs), and pain management protocols is essential. Exceptional communication, critical thinking, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring patient safety, rapid response to complications, and effective teamwork during the critical recovery phase after surgery.

What are some common challenges faced by PACU RNs during patient recovery, and how can they be managed?

PACU RNs often encounter challenges such as managing patients with varying levels of consciousness, rapidly assessing vital signs, and responding to complications like airway obstruction or pain. Quick decision-making and effective communication with anesthesiologists and surgeons are essential. Staying organized, utilizing monitoring protocols, and maintaining a calm environment can help manage these challenges while ensuring patient safety and comfort.

What is the difference between Pacu Rn vs Cardiovascular Technologist?

AspectPacu RnCardiovascular Technologist
CertificationsRN license, Pacu certificationRegistered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS), certification varies
Work EnvironmentPost-anesthesia recovery units, hospitalsCatheterization labs, surgical settings
Industry UsageHospitals, outpatient surgery centersCardiology departments, hospitals

Both Pacu Rn and Cardiovascular Technologists work in hospital settings, focusing on cardiac procedures. Pacu Rns primarily assist in post-anesthesia recovery, while Cardiovascular Technologists support invasive cardiac procedures. The key differences lie in certifications and specific roles, but both are vital in cardiac care teams.

Are PACU nurses in demand?

PACU nurses are in high demand due to the need for specialized postoperative care in hospitals and surgical centers. The role requires certification such as ACLS and strong skills in patient monitoring, making experienced nurses valuable in this field. Job growth for PACU nurses is expected to remain steady as surgical procedures and healthcare services expand.
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Pacu Rn jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pacu Rn job openings in Des Moines, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 52% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,978 per year, or $56.7 per hour.

Registered Nurse - Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU)

US Government Jobs

Des Moines, IA • On-site

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Post Anesthesia Care Unit (Pacu) Registered Nurse (Rn)

The post anesthesia care unit (PACU) registered nurse (RN) provides specialized care in the assessment, planning, implementing and evaluation of care throughout the peri anesthesia continuum to include the pre anesthesia phase, post anesthesia phase I, post anesthesia phase II, and extended care from sedation/analgesia and/or anesthesia for surgical, diagnostic, or therapeutic procedures.

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