Transition to Specialty Practice, Main Theatre: Anaesthetics and PACU 2027
Employment Type - Temporary Part Time
EBA - Nurses and Midwives (Victorian Public Sector) Single Interest Employer Agreement 2024-2028
Job Category - Nursing - Registered Nurse (Div 1)
Req Id - 9596
Transition to Specialty Practice, Main Theatre in Anaesthetics and PACU Nursing for 2027
- Launch your specialty nursing career | Gain hands-on experience across Anaesthetics and PACU through structured rotations and dedicated clinical support
- Learn, grow and build confidence | Access tailored study days, expert guidance and a supportive environment designed to help you thrive
- Invest in your future | Complete a structured program with an end-of-program assessment, building valuable skills and opening the door to exciting career opportunities in perioperative nursing
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 nursing care within the Anaesthetics and Recovery environment.
- Assess, monitor and evaluate patients, responding appropriately to changes in their clinical condition.
- Work collaboratively with the multidisciplinary team to support safe and effective patient care throughout the perioperative journey.
- Maintain accurate and timely patient documentation in accordance with clinical, legal and regulatory requirements.
- Contribute to quality improvement, audits, safety initiatives and service development.
- Support a positive team culture and contribute to the education and professional development of colleagues and students.
What we're looking for
- Registered Nurse with minimum of 12 months acute nursing experience at the commencement of program
- Motivated and committed to building knowledge and clinical confidence
- Effective communication, willingness to embrace feedback and work collaboratively to deliver safe, high-quality patient care
- Commitment to continuous professional development and evidence-based practice
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.
What the Program Offers
- 12-months: temporary part time commencing February 2027
- A structured introduction to Anaesthetic and PACU nursing including assessment components throughout the program.
- Planned specialty rotations throughout the theatre suite
- Education and clinical support provided by the dedicated Perioperative education team
- Several targeted study and education days
- Opportunities to build specialist perioperative nursing knowledge and skills
Successful completion of this program provides an opportunity to apply for 1 credit point at Deakin University towards a Post Graduate Certificate in Perioperative Nursing
- 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 and Midwifery Recruitment Team
Email: nmrt@barwonhealth.org.au
Ph: (03) 42155822
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.