Pre-Admission Testing Nurse

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION

The Pre-Admission Testing (PAT) Nurse is responsible for coordinating and completing comprehensive preoperative assessments for patients scheduled for surgical procedures in the ambulatory surgery center. This role ensures patients are medically optimized, appropriately selected for ambulatory surgery, and fully prepared for their procedures while maintaining compliance with AAAHC accreditation standards, CMS Conditions for Coverage, state regulations, and center policies.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct comprehensive pre-admission assessments via phone, telehealth, or in-person visits
• Review patient medical histories, medications, allergies, and prior surgical and anesthesia experiences
• Assess patient appropriateness for ambulatory surgery and identify potential anesthesia or surgical risks
• Communicate identified risks or concerns to anesthesia providers, surgeons, and leadership as appropriate
• Verify completion and accuracy of required preoperative testing, lab results, EKGs, imaging, and medical clearances
• Collaborate with surgeons' offices, anesthesia providers, and primary care practices to obtain required documentation
• Ensure preoperative documentation is complete, accurate, timely, and survey-ready within the electronic medical record (EMR)
• Provide clear and thorough patient education, including medication management, fasting guidelines, infection prevention, and day-of-surgery expectations
• Reinforce patient rights, informed consent processes, and confidentiality in accordance with AAAHC standards
• Identify and escalate concerns that may require case postponement, additional medical evaluation, or anesthesia review
• Adhere to and support center policies related to infection control, patient safety, and risk management
• Participate in Performance Improvement (PI) and Quality Assurance (QA) activities related to preoperative care
• Support AAAHC surveys by maintaining accurate documentation, participating in audits, and demonstrating adherence to established processes
• Maintain patient confidentiality and uphold HIPAA standards at all times

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Current, unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license
• Graduate of an accredited nursing program
• Minimum of two (2) years of clinical nursing experience (perioperative, PACU, ICU, or medical-surgical experience preferred)
• Strong clinical assessment, critical-thinking, and organizational skills
• Exceptional attention to detail is required
• Proficiency with electronic medical records and basic computer applications
• Excellent communication and patient education skills
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with a multidisciplinary team
• Working knowledge of AAAHC accreditation standards or willingness to learn and maintain compliance

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Prior experience in Pre-Admission Testing, Perioperative Nursing, or Ambulatory Surgery
• Familiarity with anesthesia guidelines and preoperative risk stratification
• BLS certification (ACLS preferred, if applicable)

COMPLIANCE AND QUALITY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Adheres to all ambulatory surgery center policies, procedures, and AAAHC accreditation standards
• Maintains accurate, complete, and timely documentation to support regulatory compliance and patient safety
• Actively participates in quality improvement initiatives and patient safety reporting
• Promotes a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement

ENVIRONMENTAL/WORKING CONDITIONS

• Ability to sit, stand, and work at a computer for extended periods
• Occasional lifting of light equipment or supplies
• May require limited direct patient interaction