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PACU RN
Company : Catholic Health Initiatives
Location : Chattanooga, TN, 37404
Job Type : Full Time
Salary : 30-43.05 HOUR
Date Posted : 13 January 2026
Job Summary and Responsibilities
Incorporates knowledge of the nursing process and standards of nursing in daily practice. Applies knowledge of growth and development to perform detailed assignments/interventions. Provides consistent care based on the changing physical and psychosocial needs, unique to the patient. Responsible for the delivery of efficient, safe patient care to patients in the immediate, critical period following anesthesia, surgical, and any other invasive procedure through the use of the nursing process, delegation and evaluation of the activities of subordinate staff members and coordinating support services.
Job Requirements
Required Education Graduate of an accredited nursing program.
Required Licensure and Certifications RN License in the state of Tennessee. BLS, ACLS, & PALS within six months of transferring to the department or hire date.
Required Minimum Knowledge, Skills and Ability One year previous experience in Postoperative Surgical Area or ICU experience preferred.
PREFERRED Qualifications National Certification preferred.
Where You'll WorkCHI Memorial, a member of CommonSpirit, is an award-winning, not-for-profit, faith-based health care organization dedicated to the healing ministry of Jesus Christ. Founded by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, we offer a comprehensive continuum of care, from preventative and primary care to acute hospital services specializing in cancer, cardiac, neuroscience, stroke, and orthopedic services. Our commitment to excellence has earned us top prestigious recognition repeatedly from U.S. News and World Report, PINC AI™, CMS, Healthgrades®, Leapfrog, and most recently as one of the Best Places to Work in Tennessee. We are proud to serve Southeast Tennessee and Northwest Georgia with the expertise of 4,700 team members and nearly 500 affiliated physicians.
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Frequently asked questions
Chattanooga's healthcare sector shows a steady demand for PACU RNs, with Catholic Health Initiatives often recruiting due to its expanding surgical services. Competition exists but is manageable for RNs with ICU or postoperative experience, making now a favorable time to apply for PACU roles locally.
Besides the mandatory Tennessee RN license, certifications like BLS, ACLS, and PALS are essential within six months of hire. National certification in PACU nursing is highly regarded and can enhance your profile, especially in faith-based organizations like Catholic Health Initiatives.
Mastering patient monitoring during critical recovery phases, understanding anesthesia effects, and rapid assessment abilities are vital. Skills in delegation and coordinating team efforts also elevate performance, ensuring safe, responsive care for surgical patients.
PACU RNs specialize in immediate postoperative care, focusing on stabilizing patients after anesthesia. Unlike general floor nurses, their tasks are acute and time-sensitive, requiring close vigilance during patient recovery to detect complications early.
New grads stepping into PACU roles should anticipate a steep learning curve with hands-on mentorship. Experience in ICU or surgical units is beneficial, but faith-based employers like Catholic Health Initiatives often provide structured support to build clinical confidence.
CHI offers access to continuing education, certifications, and a collaborative environment rooted in compassionate care. Their recognition as a top workplace in Tennessee underscores commitment to employee development and well-being, making it a nurturing setting for PACU RNs.
Catholic Health Initiatives blends advanced acute care services with a faith-based mission, fostering a unique workplace culture. PACU RNs there benefit from state-of-the-art resources, interdisciplinary teamwork, and a community-oriented approach uncommon in many local facilities.
PACU RNs in Chattanooga typically earn between $58,000 and $72,000 annually, slightly below national averages due to regional cost of living. However, Catholic Health Initiatives often offers competitive compensation packages including benefits, reflecting its status as a leading local employer.
Per diem and part-time PACU roles are common in Chattanooga, providing RNs flexibility in scheduling. These positions suit nurses balancing personal commitments while gaining experience in post-anesthesia care, often with opportunities to transition into full-time roles.