Special Skills for PACU Nurses
A PACU nurse, formally called a perianesthesia nurse, is a registered nurse who provides intensive care to patients undergoing anesthesia for medical procedures. She prepares patients for surgery; monitors patients during the administration of anesthesia and, while under the medication, provides care once a patient has come out of the anesthesia; and prepares patients for discharge from perianesthesia care. Perianesthesia care is a critical area of the medical field, and PACU nurses must possess specialized skills to ensure efficient and safe care of patients.
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Nursing Skills
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A PACU nurse must have critical care and medical/surgical nursing skills such as placing intravenous lines, inserting tubes, positioning patients and changing dressings. She must have experience in surgical procedures and an understanding of specific patient populations such as elderly patients (geriatrics) or child patients (pediatrics). A PACU nurse must also have special abilities in general, cardiovascular, pulmonary, neurological, pain and wound management care, and experience with various intravenous medications. For example, she must be able to transport patients after operations, provide mechanical ventilation care and care for patients with various types of anesthesia, including narcotic analgesia and patient controlled analgesia.
Quick Thinking and Problem Solving
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Perianesthesia care units are generally classified as intensive care areas with the possibility of emergency situations. A PACU nurse must be able to quickly respond to complications related to anesthesia, such as respiratory distress, rapid excitement, pain, abnormally low blood pressure, nausea and vomiting. She must be able to successfully function in a stressful environment and make good decisions. She must also be able to recognize, evaluate and employ effective problem-solving methods when caring for patients and completing responsibilities.
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Care for Various Patients
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Perianesthesia care units generally have a rapid turnover of patients with varying medical conditions. A PACU nurse must be able to transition from one patient to another in a quick and efficient manner. She must also be flexible and be able to successfully provide care in diverse situations and settings. She must be able to adapt to modifications in the medical setting that often occur in an ever-changing healthcare environment.
Teamwork and Communication
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Teamwork is an essential component of the PACU care unit, and PACU nurses are required to work with other members of the healthcare team to manage nursing care plans for patients undergoing anesthesia. She must have effective communication and the ability to build interpersonal relationships. A PACU nurse must be able to positively communicate with all members of the healthcare team as well as patients to provide teaching regarding issues related to anesthesia, such as complications and after-care.
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