Registered Nurse (RN) – PCU

Position Overview

The Registered Nurse in the Progressive Care Unit (PCU) will be responsible for providing care to patients with varying acuity levels. The unit encompasses a combination of Pulmonary Care and Medical-Surgical/Telemetry patients, primarily focusing on respiratory-related conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage patient care for a diverse population, including those with COPD exacerbations, pneumonia, acute respiratory failure, and COVID-19.
• Effectively monitor telemetry for dysrhythmias and administer interventions as needed.
• Collaborate with a healthcare team, including respiratory therapists and charge nurse, to optimize patient outcomes.
• Utilize EKG interpretation skills, ensuring timely and accurate management of high-acuity situations.
• Provide care for patients requiring ventilatory support, including CPAP and BiPAP devices.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of nursing experience is required.
• First-time travelers are welcome to apply.
• Required certifications include ACLS and BLS.
• NIHSS certification is preferred.
• Strong skills in IV starts, telemetry, and interpretation of dysrhythmias are essential.

Unit Details

• Target nurse-to-patient ratio of 1:4-5, with possible adjustments to 1:6 in extreme situations.
• Patient population includes those requiring telemetry monitoring and chronic ventilator management.
• Available equipment includes chest tubes, drips (Dopamine, Cardizem, Heparin), ventilators, and other respiratory aids.
• CNA support is available at a ratio of 9-10:1.
• Daily resources include an Admission/Discharge nurse, Assistant Nurse Manager, Vascular Access Team, Rapid Response Team, and Code Team.

Scheduling and Orientation

• Position available for 36 hours per week with shifts scheduled for 12-hour nights, from 18:45 to 07:15.
• Requires floating to similar units as needed.
• A commitment to working every other weekend is expected.
• Orientation duration is 24 hours.
• Block scheduling may be accommodated based on unit needs.

Additional Notes

Registered Nurses must pass EKG testing before starting in this specialty. The unit currently provides care for COVID-19 patients, including those who have tested positive. Scrubs are not provided; uniforms should be white or navy blue.