RN, PAT

Brief Description
The Registered Nurse, Pre-Anesthesia Testing (PAT) is a vital member of the perioperative team responsible for assessing and preparing patients for anesthesia and surgery through comprehensive pre-operative evaluation, patient education, and interdisciplinary communication. This role ensures medical optimization and informed consent prior to surgery, contributing to safety, quality, and efficiency.

• Conducted comprehensive pre-anesthesia assessments, including medical and surgical history, medications, allergies, and relevant social factors.
• Reviewed diagnostic studies and identified abnormalities requiring anesthesia or provider follow-up.
• Communicated clinical findings, concerns, and readiness updates to anesthesia providers, surgeons, and other care team members.
• Ensured all required tests, consults, and medical clearances are completed and available before the scheduled procedure.
• Provided clear pre-operative instructions on fasting, medication management, arrival times, and day-of-surgery expectations.
• Addressed patient questions and concerns related to anesthesia or surgery, offering appropriate guidance and support.
• Coordinated information flow between clinic staff, schedulers, and perioperative teams to support timely case preparation.
• Documented assessments, education, communications, and interventions accurately and promptly in the EHR.
• Maintained complete and compliant medical records following organizational and regulatory standards.
• Utilized the electronic health record effectively, ensuring confidentiality and accuracy of patient information.
• Collaborated in interdisciplinary discussions, case reviews, and quality improvement initiatives related to pre-operative readiness.
• Identified potential risk factors affecting anesthesia or surgical safety and initiated follow‑up per protocol.
• Verified that patient information, test results, and required documentation are updated, accurate, and accessible before the day of surgery.
• Demonstrated sound clinical judgment and problem‑solving in evaluating surgical readiness.

• Associate’s degree or equivalent from a two‑year college program, technical school, or nursing diploma.
• Graduate from an accredited school of nursing.
• Current registered nurse licensure in Arkansas.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification (required within one year of hire).

• Two (2) years of clinical experience in direct patient care, preferred.
• Previous perioperative or pre‑anesthesia testing experience, preferred.
• Excellent computer and basic office equipment skills.
• Ability to read, understand and follow oral and written instructions.

• Often required to talk or hear.
• Regularly required to stand, walk, sit, use hand to finger, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms.
• Specific vision abilities include close vision and ability to adjust focus.

This position involves potential exposure to infectious diseases. Colleagues are offered appropriate vaccinations and safety training.

This position is safety-sensitive; the essential functions, physical demands, and mental competencies require the employee maintain a constant state of alertness in a safe manner.

• Seniority level:
  Entry level
• Employment type:
  
  Full‑time
• Job function:
  Health Care Provider
• Industry: Hospitals and Health Care

Arkansas, United States | $71,100.00‑$97,800.00 per year