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Preop Pacu Rn Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

RN - PACU

Salinas, CA · On-site

$3.1K/wk

Details Client Name SALINAS VALLEY MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE - SERVICE LEAGUE GIFT SHOP Job Type Travel Offering Nursing Profession RN Specialty PreOp / PACU - Post Anesthesia Care Job ID 18918828 Job ...

Registered Nurse - PACU

Mammoth Lakes, CA · On-site

$58.46 - $83.27/hr

The PACU Registered Nurse provides nursing care to preoperative and postanesthesia patients and has charge of patient safety, provision of supplies, equipment, and maintaining asepsis. What You'll Do:

New

Registered Nurse - PACU

Mammoth Lakes, CA · On-site

$58.46 - $83.27/hr

The PACU Registered Nurse provides nursing care to preoperative and postanesthesia patients and has charge of patient safety, provision of supplies, equipment, and maintaining asepsis. What You'll Do:

New

Travel PACU Registered Nurse

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... PACU ↔ ACU/Pre-op/Phase 2 | Charge RN (light assignment) | Call required (4 weeknights/month + 24-36 hrs weekend call, 30-min response) | Medlivo Job ID #1097674. Pay package is based on 10 hour ...

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Preop Pacu Rn information

See California salary details

$892

$2.3K

$3.4K

How much do preop pacu rn jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average weekly pay for preop pacu rn in California is $2,294.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,803.85 and $2,751.92 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Preop PACU RN?

Preop PACU RNs are Registered Nurses who specialize in caring for patients before and after surgical procedures in the Preoperative (Preop) and Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) settings. Their responsibilities include preparing patients for surgery, monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and providing post-anesthesia care as patients recover from surgery. These nurses play a critical role in patient safety, pain management, and communication with both patients and the surgical team. Preop PACU RNs must be skilled in emergency response and patient assessment.

What is the difference between Preop Pacu Rn vs Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) Nurse?

AspectPreop Pacu RnPost Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) Nurse
CertificationsRN license, possibly ACLS, PALSRN license, ACLS, PALS often required
Work EnvironmentPreoperative area, preparing patients for surgeryPostoperative recovery, monitoring patients after anesthesia
Employer & IndustryHospitals, outpatient surgical centersHospitals, surgical centers, anesthesia providers

Preop Pacu Rns focus on preparing patients before surgery, ensuring they are ready and safe for anesthesia. PACU Nurses care for patients immediately after surgery, monitoring recovery from anesthesia. While both roles require similar certifications and work in surgical settings, their responsibilities differ based on the patient care timeline.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a Preop PACU RN?

To thrive as a Preop PACU RN, you need a strong foundation in perioperative nursing, patient assessment, and knowledge of anesthesia recovery, typically supported by an active RN license and certifications such as ACLS and PALS. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), patient monitoring systems, and specialized recovery equipment is essential. Excellent critical thinking, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure patient safety, smooth surgical workflows, and high-quality care during the critical preoperative and post-anesthesia phases.

What challenges do Preop PACU RNs face during patient handoffs, and how can they be managed?

Preop PACU RNs often encounter challenges during patient handoffs, such as incomplete communication of patient information, time constraints, and managing multiple priorities simultaneously. To manage these effectively, it's crucial to follow standardized handoff protocols like SBAR (Situation-Background-Assessment-Recommendation), actively engage with surgical and anesthesia teams, and ensure all necessary documentation is up to date. Good teamwork and clear communication help minimize errors and ensure patient safety during transitions.

What are popular job titles related to Preop Pacu Rn jobs in California?

For Preop Pacu Rn jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Preop Pacu Rn jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Preop Pacu Rn jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Preop Pacu Rn job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 27% As Needed, 33% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $119,305 per year, or $57.4 per hour.

Advanced PACU RN | Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse

MLee Medical Employment

Alpine, CA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Position Overview
This role is essential within the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU), focusing on delivering exceptional, patient-centered care during the perioperative period. The ideal candidate will possess advanced clinical skills, specialized certifications, and the ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with a multidisciplinary team to ensure patient safety and optimal recovery outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
Patient Care
  • Coordinate with the healthcare team to provide safe, efficient, and equitable care to surgical patients.
  • Perform thorough preoperative and postoperative assessments to tailor individualized care plans.
  • Monitor patient responses post-surgery and intervene promptly when necessary.
  • Advocate for patients, ensuring their dignity and comfort throughout their care.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of care provided by the team and contribute to continuous improvement.
  • Educate patients and families on medical conditions, medications, and postoperative instructions.
  • Promote evidence-based practices within the PACU setting.
Safety and Compliance
  • Maintain a clean and safe environment adhering to infection control protocols.
  • Follow aseptic techniques rigorously and comply with regulatory standards such as The Joint Commission, OSHA, and AORN guidelines.
  • Identify and report safety concerns, actively participating in resolving systemic issues.
Documentation
  • Accurately document perioperative care, patient progress, and any incidents in the electronic medical record system.
Professional Development and Leadership
  • Mentor and precept new nurses and students, supporting their growth and development.
  • Engage in continuing education, certifications, workshops, and quality improvement projects.
  • Serve as a resource and advocate for best practices within surgical services.
  • Assume charge nurse responsibilities as needed.
Emergency Preparedness
  • Respond decisively and competently in critical situations such as cardiac arrest, demonstrating advanced clinical skills and calm under pressure.
Qualifications
Experience
  • Experienced PACU RN: Minimum of two years in a Pre-op/PACU nursing role.
  • Transitional RN Program: At least five years in ICU, Emergency Department, or similar critical care settings.
Competencies
  • Proficient in core PACU skills including airway management, pain control, hemodynamic monitoring, and postoperative assessment.
  • Strong knowledge of anatomy, physiology, anesthesia types, postoperative complications, and emergency protocols.
  • Excellent communication skills to collaborate with surgical teams, patients, and families.
Education
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred; Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) considered with five years of relevant critical care experience.
Licenses and Certifications
  • Current Registered Nurse license valid in the state of practice.
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certifications from the American Heart Association.
  • NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) certification.
  • Preferred: Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse (CAPA) or Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN) or equivalent.

All candidates must successfully complete a physical exam, drug screening, and background check prior to employment.
This opportunity is located in a vibrant regional healthcare setting within the Pacific Northwest, serving diverse communities with a commitment to compassionate and high-quality care.

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About McCall and Lee

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

McCall and Lee is a well-known and reputable company, headquartered in Austin, Texas, United States. Operating in the healthcare industry, their primary services center around professional recruiting and executive search. They cater to the needs of various levels of medical practitioners and executive positions for healthcare establishments. McCall and Lee is founded on the premise of filling healthcare vacancies with the most suitable and competent professionals to ensure top-quality medical service delivery. Their core value revolves around integrity, excellence, commitment, and customer satisfaction.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Austin, TX, US

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