Post-Op Sedation Recovery Nurse
RN – Post‑Op Sedation Recovery Nurse
Locations: Kent County & New Castle County, Delaware
Schedule: Weekly Shifts or Per Diem
Sedation Days: Rotating Monday–Thursday schedule, typically 7:30 AM–4:00 PM (end time varies based on last patient recovery)
About the Role:
Our dental sedation centers in Kent and New Castle County are seeking an experienced and compassionate RN to join our Post‑Operative Sedation Recovery team. This role is ideal for a nurse who is confident in post‑anesthesia recovery, enjoys caring for pediatric and adult patients, and can provide calm, supportive care in a fast‑paced clinical environment. You will be responsible for ensuring safe, smooth recovery following IV sedation or general anesthesia for dental procedures. This includes monitoring vitals, supporting patients with varying levels of anxiety, and delivering clear, empathetic discharge instructions to parents and caregivers.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide post‑operative recovery care for pediatric, adult, and special‑needs patients following sedation or anesthesia
- Monitor and document post‑op vitals, airway status, pain levels, nausea, bleeding, and overall recovery progression
- Identify early signs of complications and escalate appropriately
- Offer calm, reassuring support to high‑anxiety patients and families
- Review and explain post‑operative care instructions to parents, guardians, and caregivers, ensuring understanding before discharge
- Assist with medical supply and medication inventory, including restocking, organization, and expiration tracking
- Maintain a clean, safe, and compliant recovery environment
- Collaborate closely with the dental sedation team, anesthesia providers, and administrative staff
- Support emergency protocols when needed
- Ensure accurate and timely documentation in accordance with clinical and regulatory standards
- Provide guidance on:
- Pain management expectations
- Diet progression and hydration
- Activity restrictions
- Bleeding control
- Oral hygiene instructions
- Signs of complications requiring follow‑up
- Assist with patient positioning, transfer, and comfort measures during recovery
- Uphold strict infection control and safety protocols
Qualifications:
- Active RN license (Delaware)
- Experience in post‑op recovery, PACU, sedation, or anesthesia care required
- Strong comfort level with pediatric and adult patient populations
- Experience with special needs patients strongly preferred
- Ability to remain calm, supportive, and communicative with high‑anxiety patients and families
- Strong assessment skills and confidence in monitoring post‑sedation recovery
- CPR/BLS required; PALS preferred
- Excellent communication and patient‑education skills
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team‑oriented clinical environment
Schedule & Work Expectations:
- Weekly or per‑diem shifts available
- Sedation days follow a rotating Monday–Thursday schedule
- Typical hours are 7:30 AM–4:00 PM, but the day ends after the final patient has safely recovered (may be earlier or later)
- No evenings, weekends, or major holidays
Compensation based on experience and credentials.
What We Offer:
- Competitive compensation
- Supportive, team‑focused work culture
- Opportunities for continuing education in sedation and clinical care
- A rewarding environment where you make a meaningful impact on patient comfort and safety
*Freedom Dental Health is committed to equal employment opportunity and it is our policy to ensure that employment-related decisions are made without regard to any classifications protected by applicable federal, state, or local law*
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