Pacu

[EDNURSE20, BSN]

Hi guys I have 2 interviews next week for pacu positions  

I have previous surgical experience, not pacu though, I do feel like I have a goodunderstanding of what the job involves and what to expect day to day. 

but just wondering if you can help me with what sort of questions to expect and things I should read up on to prepare. 

im currently in ED and hate it. I need to get out!!

[speedynurse, ADN, BSN, RN, EMT-P]

I spent several years as a nurse in the ED. It was great experience and I actually loved it for awhile. However, I felt like my license was on the line constantly…..and I was very unhappy with myself the last year or so…..I was slowly becoming judgmental, short tempered and just downright miserable.

I am in Preop and PACU now and it’s a very different world - but nearly a year later, I have finally settled in and for the most part enjoy it. I am not sure what to suggest for an interview- because in all honesty, I didn’t do any studying to get ready for my interview a year ago. I was just desperate to get out of the ER. If you really want to understand a little bit of the PACU world though, then maybe research phase I and II, airway management and when to contact anesthesia…..etc.

PACU and preop is so much less stressful then the ER! There are definitely still times to use your critical thinking and stressful moments here and there, but for the most part, it’s so much better than the ER.