
On Call Registered Nurse in Morehead, KY
Job Description
UK St. Claire
• PACU
Morehead, KY
Nursing
Full Time, Varied, Saturday-Sunday + Every Other Monday Night
Posted 01/28/2026
Req # 5334
A recovery nurse, also known as a Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) nurse, provides immediate post-operative care to patients recovering from surgery by monitoring vital signs, managing pain, and assessing for complications. They administer medications, educate patients and families, collaborate with other healthcare providers, and document care. This role requires strong critical thinking skills, the ability to work under pressure, and excellent communication and organizational abilities.
This person will be on call from 7am Saturday until 7am Monday. Rotate (every other) Monday night from 7pm to 7am Tuesday morning. Guaranteed pay for 40 hours whether worked or not.
Duties/Responsibilities
• Performs on-call duties for emergency surgeries
• Continuously monitor and record vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation.
• Assess and monitor the patient's level of consciousness and respiratory status after anesthesia.
• Watch for and address side effects of anesthesia, like nausea, pain, or confusion.
• Administer prescribed medications to manage pain, nausea, and other post-operative symptoms.
• Perform wound care, including dressing changes and monitoring the surgical site for signs of infection.
• Start and administer IV lines.
• Educate patients and their families on at-home care, including wound management, activity restrictions, and medication schedules.
• Provide clear instructions and answer any questions to ensure they are prepared for discharge.
• Maintain accurate and detailed medical records of the patient's condition, treatments, and progress.
• Communicate and collaborate with the surgical team, including surgeons and anesthesiologists, to coordinate patient care.
• Provide comfort and emotional support to patients as they emerge from sedation.
• Offer reassurance to concerned family members.
• Help stabilize patients and recognize and manage potential complications.
• Works cooperatively with other staff in putting unused supplies and equipment away and restocking area.
• Maintains professional competency through appropriate continuing education.
• Is fully knowledgeable of policies and procedures specific to the department of surgical services.
• Performs job duties in agreement with ASPAN Standards of Practice.
• Assists with any other duties as deemed necessary.
Education Requirements
Associate degree in nursing (ADN) required. Bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) or preferred.
Experience
Minimum of 2 years of experience as a Post Recovery RN
Licensure/Certifications
Valid Kentucky Board of Nursing (KBN) License required.
Basic Life Support (BLS), ACLS & PALS within 3 months of hire (can obtain at UKSC)
Job Details
Medical Speciality
SurgeryPerioperative Care
Employment Type
Contract
Required License
RN (Registered Nurse)
Work Setting
PACUHospital
About St. Claire
UK St. Claire is an integrated healthcare system serving over 160,000 people in Northeastern Kentucky. It operates hospitals, urgent care centers, primary care locations, specialty practices, and other healthcare services, employing nearly 1,300 staff members across various medical specialties. UKSC is committed to providing high-quality, accredited care and is a major training site for medical professionals.