Manager, Preop/Pacu

We’re seeking an experienced PACU Manager to lead Pre-Admission Testing (PAT), Pre-Op, and PACU teams within a high-performing ambulatory surgery environment. This role blends hands-on clinical expertise with strategic leadership, overseeing multidisciplinary teams while ensuring patient safety, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence.

This is an ideal opportunity for a collaborative nursing leader passionate about patient-centered care, team development, and continuous improvement.

The Role

The PACU Manager directs and coordinates perioperative nursing care across the PAT, Pre-Op, and PACU phases, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality patient outcomes. This role provides leadership and oversight of nursing practice, serves as a role model for clinical staff, and partners closely with physicians and leadership to optimize clinical quality, patient experience, and financial performance.

Primary Responsibilities

Clinical & Operational Leadership

• Lead daily operations across PAT, Pre-Op, and PACU to ensure safe, efficient, patient-centered care.

• Establish and maintain nursing standards aligned with professional practice, AAAHC, and AORN guidelines.

• Make informed decisions related to patient care and communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams.

• Evaluate patient care programs and identify opportunities for improvement.

Regulatory & Quality Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations, including HIPAA, OSHA, and AAAHC standards.

• Ensure accurate and complete clinical documentation.

• Support quality improvement initiatives, audits, and accreditation of readiness.

Staff Leadership & Development

• Recruit, retain, supervise, and evaluate PAT, Pre-Op, and PACU staff.

• Develop and manage daily, weekly, and monthly staffing schedules.

• Complete annual performance evaluations and provide ongoing coaching and support.

• Foster strong working relationships with physicians, leadership, and ancillary departments.

Administrative & Financial Oversight

• Support cost-control initiatives while maintaining high standards of care.

• Recommend medical supplies and equipment based on clinical and operational evaluation.

• Assist with inventory management.

• Oversee pharmacy functions, registration staff, and payroll for direct reports.

Additional Responsibilities

• Assist in developing and revising nursing policies, procedures, and staffing models.

• Stay current on professional and regulatory trends impacting perioperative nursing.

• Participate in committees and special projects as assigned.

• Delegate responsibilities during absences as appropriate.

Position Requirements

• Graduate of an accredited school of nursing.

• BSN preferred.

• Current RN license in Virginia.

• Current CPR, ACLS, and PALS certifications.

• At least 5 years of clinical leadership experience in perioperative / PACU environment preferably in an ambulatory surgery setting

• Working knowledge of AAAHC standards.

What Success Looks Like

• Engaged, high-performing PAT, Pre-Op, and PACU teams.
• Consistent delivery of safe, efficient, patient-focused care.
• Strong regulatory compliance and accreditation readiness.
• Improved operational efficiency and cost awareness.
• Trusted partnerships with physicians, leadership, and support teams.