PROFILE
PACU is a 31 bed unit caring for patients (adult and pediatric) following surgical interventions requiring general or regional anesthesia.

UNIT FOCUS
Included in the unit is a 4-bed overnight area in which critically ill patients are closely monitored. The care of these patients is consistent with MGH intensive care unit practice. Electroconvulsive therapy is performed in the PACU under the care of the Department of Anesthesia and the Department of Psychiatry with PACU nursing support and patient care management.

TEAM MEMBERS
Operation Associates and Patient Care Associates support the RN staff. Other direct care staff consists of respiratory therapists, chest physical therapists, pharmacists, and radiology technicians. The Medical Director and Nursing Director jointly manage the unit. A Clinical Nurse Specialist provides clinical support. To inquire about positions available on this unit, please contact Karen Jarosz at kjarosz@partners.org.

SCHEDULING PRACTICES
Staff schedules are driven by patient need. The scheduling process is staff driven and flexible to accommodate personal and educational needs. Once the schedule is posted, the staff manages changes. Hours of operation: 24 hours/day, 7 days/week.

STAFF ORIENTATION
All staff attends a one-week nursing orientation program. Unit orientation is preceptor based, individualized and determined by the Nursing Director, clinical nurse specialist and the new employee. The length of orientation is also individually determined. New nursing graduates participate in the New Graduate Mentorship Program. The Critical Care Consortium classes are utilized as part of the basic orientation to the unit.

EDUCATIONAL AND DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Staff education and development is supported by The Norman Knight Nursing Center for Clinical & Professional Development. Full and partial day programs are offered. Staff may also access outside educational opportunities. The teaching environment provides staff with a daily opportunity to discuss patient care related educational issues with members of the graduate medical education program and with other members of the caredelivery team.

Clinical Nurse Specialists provide educational support to staff on the nursing units. Staff has time allocated and the necessary support to offer educational programs to other staff members. Nursing Grand Rounds programs are offered on a regular basis.

Staff RNs have the opportunity to participate as a preceptor or a team leader. RNs may advance in their clinical practice and demonstrate proficiency through the Clinical Recognition Program.