Post Graduate, Perianaesthesia Nursing 2027
BARWON HEALTH STAFF ONLY
Employment Type - Temporary Part Time
Job Category - Nursing - Registered Nurse (Div 1)
Req Id - 9592
Post Graduate Certificate/Diploma in Perianaesthetics 2027
- Build specialist knowledge and skills | Develop advanced clinical expertise and confidence in your chosen area of nursing, supported by Barwon Health's Clinical Education Team
- Expand career opportunities | Gain a recognised qualification that can open doors to specialty roles, career progression and leadership opportunities
- Invest in your professional growth | Strengthen your practice, stay up to date with evidence-based care and make a greater impact on patient outcomes
About the role
Anaesthetic Nurse
The role of the anaesthetic nurse is a dual one that encompasses both the role of the perioperative nurse and the role of the assistant for the anaesthetist. Working collaboratively as a member of the anaesthetic team, the anaesthetic nurse is an integral part of the overall perioperative management of the vulnerable patient in a high acuity environment.
The role of the anaesthetic nurse is integral to the patient's safe journey from the perioperative area through to the Post Anaesthetic Care Unit (PACU).
Post Anaesthetic Care Unit (PACU) Nurse:
A PACU nurse is responsible for the care and monitoring of patients immediately after surgery.
They work in the Post-Anaesthetic Care Unit, attached directly to the theatre suite. They are responsible for detection and safe management of complications related to either the surgery, or the anaesthetic. Their core skills encompass Airway Management, Patient Assessment and Monitoring, Pain and Nausea Management, in addition to the other aspects of post-operative surgical care. Nurses collaborate closely with the Surgeons, Anaesthetists, and other healthcare team members to ensure continuity of care and facilitate a smooth handover from the operating room.
Key responsibilities
- Provide safe, high-quality and patient-centred care throughout the perioperative and post-operative journey
- Support the anaesthetist in the assessment, preparation and management of patients during anaesthesia
- Monitor and assess patients in PACU, recognising and responding appropriately to changes in their clinical condition
- Apply clinical skills including airway management, patient monitoring, and pain and nausea management
- Identify and safely manage complications associated with surgery or anaesthesia within scope of practice
- Collaborate with anaesthetists, surgeons and the multidisciplinary team to support continuity of care and safe patient handover
What we’re looking for
- Registered Nurse with minimum of 12 months acute nursing experience
- Previous nursing operating theatre experience within anaesthetics
- Strong clinical judgment and ability to remain calm under pressure
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Commitment to continuous professional development and evidence-based practice
What the Program Offers
- 12 months: 68 hrs per fortnight, temporary part time commencing Feb 2027
- Rotations through operating services and exposure to various specialties
- Education and clinical support provided by the dedicated Perioperative education team.
- Eligible nurses and midwives are entitled to examination leave and study leave under the Nurses and Midwives (Victorian Public Sector) Enterprise Agreement.
Continued employment in this postgraduate nursing position is contingent upon the successful completion of all local clinical requirements and academic requirements associated with the affiliated University
About the Service
Operating Services at University Geelong Main theatre offers a round-the-clock service with ten operating theatres. Beyond elective surgeries, the department handles semi-urgent and emergency procedures. Specialities encompass Cardiothoracic, ENT, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Oral Faciomaxillary, Plastics, Orthopaedics, Ophthalmology, Urology, Vascular and Robotic Surgery.
- Excellent working conditions and a strong sense of job satisfaction
- A vibrant staff wellbeing program and access to our 24/7 Employee Assistance Program
- Extensive professional development opportunities
- Attractive salary packaging benefits
- Living expenses capped at $9,010
- Meals and entertainment capped at $2,650
For more information about working at Barwon Health, please click here
Barwon Health is an inclusive and welcoming employer, committed to reflecting the diverse communities we serve. We value and celebrate people of all genders, sexual orientations, cultural backgrounds, faiths, abilities, family structures, and identities, and encourage applications from Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, and members of the LGBTIQA+ community.
Child safety
We are strongly committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people. Click here for further information on the Victorian Government’s Child Safe Standards
Additional information
If you need adjustments to participate in the recruitment process, please contact us at peopleassist@barwonhealth.org.au
All appointments are subject to:
- Satisfactory Police Record Check
- Immunisation Status Clearance
- Working with Children Check (if applicable)
To apply, you will need a resume and a tailored cover letter outlining your skills, experience, and suitability for the position in line with the requirements of the position description. Please note: We do not accept resumes via email.
Contact: Nursing & Midwifery Recruitment Team
Email: nmrt@barwonhealth.org.au
Phone: (03) 4215 5822
Application closing date: 9 October 2026
Internal applicants:
If you are currently employed at Barwon Health, please ensure you sign in via the employee login on the external careers page or access the careers page through One Point (intranet) before applying.
Shortlisting may commence prior to the closing date - early applications are encouraged.
Barwon Health does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruitment agencies. Candidates must apply directly through the official recruitment portal.