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Preop Pacu Rn Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

GHR Healthcare is seeking a travel nurse RN PreOp / PACU - Post Anesthesia Care for a travel nursing job in Boston, Massachusetts. & Requirements * Specialty: PreOp / PACU - Post Anesthesia Care

Specialty: PreOp / PACU - Post Anesthesia Care * Discipline: RN * Start Date: ASAP * Duration: 13 weeks * 36 hours per week * Shift: 12 hours, nights * Employment Type: Travel Wellspring Nurse Source ...

Specialty: PreOp / PACU - Post Anesthesia Care * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 07/05/2026 * Duration: 12 weeks * 36 hours per week * Shift: 12 hours, nights * Employment Type: Travel GHR Healthcare - ...

Specialty: PreOp / PACU - Post Anesthesia Care * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 07/05/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 36 hours per week * Shift: 12 hours, nights * Employment Type: Travel Host Healthcare ...

Specialty: PreOp / PACU - Post Anesthesia Care * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 07/05/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 36 hours per week * Shift: 12 hours, nights * Employment Type: Travel Pride Health Job ...

Specialty: PreOp / PACU - Post Anesthesia Care * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 07/05/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 36 hours per week * Shift: 12 hours, nights * Employment Type: Local Contract Host ...

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Preop Pacu Rn information

See Boston, MA salary details

$981

$2.5K

$3.8K

How much do preop pacu rn jobs pay per week?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average weekly pay for preop pacu rn in Boston, MA is $2,525.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,984.62 and $3,028.85 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is PACU less stressful than ICU?

Preop PACU RNs typically experience a different stress level compared to ICU nurses, as PACU involves focused post-anesthesia recovery with shorter shifts and a controlled environment. ICU nurses often face higher stress due to managing critically ill patients with complex needs and longer shifts. Both roles require strong assessment skills and the ability to handle emergencies, but the overall stress depends on individual preferences and work environment.

How to make an extra $2000 a month as a nurse?

Preop PACU RNs can increase their income by taking on per diem or overtime shifts, working in high-demand facilities, or obtaining specialized certifications like ACLS or PALS to qualify for higher-paying roles. Additionally, some nurses supplement income through travel assignments or teaching nursing courses, leveraging their clinical expertise and flexible schedules.

Do PACU nurses do preop?

Preoperative nursing is typically performed by preop nurses, who prepare patients before surgery. PACU nurses primarily focus on postoperative care, monitoring patients as they recover from anesthesia. While some facilities may have overlapping roles, PACU nurses generally do not conduct preoperative assessments.

What are Preop PACU RNs?

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.

How to make $150,000 as a nurse?

To earn $150,000 as a Preop PACU RN, gaining experience, obtaining specialized certifications, and working in high-paying facilities or regions can help increase salary. Working overtime, taking on leadership roles, or pursuing advanced education like a nurse practitioner license can also boost earning potential.

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

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 are some common challenges Preop PACU RNs face during patient handoffs, and how can these be managed effectively?

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 Boston, MA? For Preop Pacu Rn jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Preop Pacu Rn job openings in Boston, MA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% As Needed, 54% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $131,333 per year, or $63.1 per hour.
RN - PACU/Pre-Op - Day/Evening

RN - PACU/Pre-Op - Day/Evening

Cambridge Health Alliance

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$42 - $94.90/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Cambridge Health Alliance rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Location: CHA Cambridge Hospital
Category: Registered Nurse
Department: PACU PREOP Cambridge Hospital
Job Type: Full time
Union Name: MNA Cambridge
Length Of Shift(s) In Hours: 12 hours
Shift Start + End Times: Varied Shifts; Day/Evening
Hours/Week: 36.00
Weekend Requirements: On call
Holiday Requirements: On call
On Call Requirements: Yes
External experienced PACU RNs may be eligible for up to $20,000 in bonuses!
CHA Perioperative Services consists of Orthopedics, General Surgery, Ophthalmology, Urology, Plastics, Podiatry, Vascular and Endoscopy and many other services. Cambridge Health Alliance's experienced Surgery team has performed thousands of procedures at some of Boston's finest teaching hospitals. Today, we have recruited highly-regarded surgeons and provide state-of-the-art care in our operating rooms. The department has grown significantly adding skilled surgeons who bring specialized care to our communities. Our most recent initiatives include Orthopedic Trauma, Robotics, Bariatrics and Spine. All of our Surgeons handle routine cases as well as more complex procedures. Whenever possible, we use minimally invasive techniques to reduce the discomfort and recovery time of surgery. Many procedures can now be done on an outpatient basis with patients going home the same day. These procedures including Endoscopy are performed at Cambridge and Everett hospitals, and outpatient Endoscopy is performed at our Somerville Campus.
The Peri Anesthesia (PACU) RN is responsible for all aspects of care for perioperative patients in the preoperative phase and immediate post-operative phase through discharge. The Peri Anesthesia (PACU) RN manages all aspects of nursing care for patients in pre-anesthesia testing, Surgical Day Care and PACU. RN will do pre-admission, preop and PACU nurse duties. Demonstrates an ability to think critically, make confident decisions in a fast-paced clinical environment and communicate effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
Qualifications/Experience:
Current Massachusetts RN License in good standing
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree preferred.
Current American Heart Association BLS certification required
Current American Heart Association ACLS certifications required
Current American Heart Association PALS certifications required
One to Two years of current PACU or Critical Care related experience required; recovery of patients over a continuum of care from general, regional or local anesthesia and moderate sedation is preferred.
Please note that the final offer may vary within the listed Pay Range, based on a candidate's experience, skills, qualifications, and internal equity considerations.
In keeping with federal, state and local laws, Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA) policy forbids employees and associates to discriminate against anyone based on race, religion, color, gender, age, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to establishing and maintaining a workplace free of discrimination. We are fully committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not tolerate unlawful discrimination in the recruitment, hiring, termination, promotion, salary treatment or any other condition of employment or career development. Furthermore, we will not tolerate the use of discriminatory slurs, or other remarks, jokes or conduct, that in the judgment of CHA, encourage or permit an offensive or hostile work environment.

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About Cambridge Health Alliance

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA) is a renowned healthcare organization located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States. The entity operates in the healthcare and wellness sector serving the greater Boston area. Publicly established in 1996 through the merger of Cambridge and Somerville hospitals, the CHA provides a broad spectrum of clinical services ranging from primary care to specialty services. True to its commitment to the communities it serves, the CHA's mission involves providing high-quality care, respectful of every individual's needs, irrespective of their background or financial status.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cambridge, MA, US

Year founded

1996

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