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Post Operative Nurse Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Watson Clinic

RN - OR & PRE-OP/PACU - PRN

Lakeland, FL · On-site

... nursing care given to the surgical patient by assuming the preoperative role. The role is defined as the pre-operative and the post-operative period. May have contact with the patient in each phase ...

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Post Operative Nurse information

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$52

How much do post operative nurse jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for post operative nurse in the United States is $35.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.88 and $39.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a post operative nurse?

Post Operative Nurses, also known as PACU (Post Anesthesia Care Unit) nurses, are registered nurses who specialize in caring for patients recovering from surgery. They monitor vital signs, manage pain, and watch for complications as patients wake up from anesthesia. Their role is crucial in ensuring a safe and smooth recovery immediately following surgical procedures. Post Operative Nurses also educate patients and families about post-surgical care and discharge instructions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a post operative nurse?

To thrive as a Post Operative Nurse, you need expertise in post-surgical patient care, vital sign monitoring, and wound management, typically requiring a nursing degree and RN licensure. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), patient monitoring devices, and medication administration systems is essential. Strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe recovery, timely intervention for complications, and effective support for both patients and surgical teams.

What are the main challenges a post operative nurse faces during patient recovery, and how can they be managed?

Post Operative Nurses often face challenges such as monitoring patients for complications like infection, managing pain effectively, and ensuring that recovery protocols are followed. These nurses must stay alert to subtle changes in patient condition, work efficiently with the surgical team, and communicate closely with families. Managing these challenges involves strong clinical assessment skills, adherence to best practices in patient care, and the ability to respond quickly to emergencies. Teamwork and continuous education are also key in maintaining high standards of postoperative care.

What is the difference between Post Operative Nurse vs Surgical Nurse?

AspectPost Operative NurseSurgical Nurse
CertificationsRN license, post-op care trainingRN license, surgical assisting skills
Work EnvironmentPost-surgery recovery units, hospitalsOperating rooms, surgical wards
Job FocusMonitoring recovery, managing pain, patient educationAssisting during surgery, preparing OR
Employer & IndustryHospitals, surgical centersHospitals, outpatient surgical centers

While both Post Operative Nurses and Surgical Nurses work in hospital settings and require RN licensure, Post Operative Nurses primarily focus on patient recovery after surgery, monitoring vital signs, and managing pain. Surgical Nurses assist during procedures, prepare the operating room, and support surgeons. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What cities are hiring for Post Operative Nurse jobs?

Cities with the most Post Operative Nurse job openings:

What states have the most Post Operative Nurse jobs?

States with the most job openings for Post Operative Nurse jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Post Operative Nurse jobs?

For Post Operative Nurse jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Post Operative Nurse jobs near you

RN, Pre/Post Operative Nurse (Per Diem)

Encino, CA • On-site

Sante Health Partners
See more jobs at Sante Health Partnersexternal

Other

Re-posted 8 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Responsible for patient's admission, pre-operative care, and ensuring holistic preparation for surgery, including education and psychosocial needs.

  • Coordinates pre-operative lab work, documents and reports relevant results, and provides post-operative care and stabilization, including discharge planning and education.

  • Performs patient assessments, documents actions accurately, and acts appropriately in emergency situations to ensure patient safety.

Job description

Job Overview
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Pre/Post Operative Nurse to join our healthcare team. The ideal candidate will possess a strong clinical background and demonstrate exceptional patient care skills. The Pre/Post Operative Nurse will be responsible for providing high-quality nursing care, ensuring patient safety, and promoting health education.

At Sante Health Partners, we specialize in providing high-quality, same-day surgical care in a state-of-the-art, patient-centered environment. We are looking for a dedicated and compassionate Pre/Post Operative Nurse to join our expert team, ensuring seamless operations in the operating room and exceptional patient care.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Responsible for patient’s admission and pre-operative care; holistic
    preparation for surgery, considering all needs, including pre-operative
    education, escort/family members, psychosocial needs, and acting
    under established protocols, practices, and standing orders
  • Coordinates pre-operative lab work required for individual patients,
    documenting and reporting pertinent results
  • Responsible for the patient’s post-operative care and stabilization;
    holistic preparation for return to the home environment, considering
    all needs, including post-discharge care, escort/family members,
    educational and psychosocial needs, and acting under established
    protocols, practices, and standing orders
  • Performs thorough and accurate continual patient assessment,
    anticipating potential problems and reporting pertinent assessments
    to the anesthesiologist, supervisor, and/or surgeon appropriately
  • Documents actions in medical record completely and accurately in a
    timely manner
  • Keeps safety of patient, self, and others a primary concern at all times;
    acts appropriately in an emergency situation
  • Acts as discharge nurse when assigned, giving holistic and thorough
    discharge education
  • Demonstrates good nursing knowledge base and rationale for actions,
    including cardiac monitoring
  • Supervises and directs, as delegated, the activities of non-professional
    personnel
  • Utilizes equipment and supplies effectively and efficiently, assisting
    with stocking, replenishing, and preparation of supplies
  • Performs other related duties as assigned by supervisors

Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in Nursing (preferred).
  • Minimum of 1 year of experience in an operating room or relevant clinical setting.
  • Valid California RN license.
  • Maintains current CPR certification and any advanced certifications
  • Fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (including booster).
  • Willingness to travel between our 3 Southern California locations.


Locations:

  • 2080 Century Park E Suite 1111, Los Angeles, CA 90067
  • 5400 Balboa Boulevard Suite 111, Encino, CA 91316
  • 20162 SW Birch St #100, Newport Beach, CA 92660


Why Join Us?
Sante Health Partners is accredited by QUAD A and licensed by the California Department of Public Health, ensuring top-notch safety and care. You’ll work alongside a team of surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists who are passionate about delivering cutting-edge procedures and personalized care. We offer a collaborative work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a real difference in patients’ lives.


If you are an experienced nurse with a passion for patient care and teamwork, we invite you to apply and become part of our dedicated healthcare family.


Apply today and be a part of making surgery a stress-free, positive experience for patients!