PCU/Stepdown Nurse (RN) | Winston-Salem, North Carolina

Job Description

Job Description

Nursing degree, active registered nurse (RN) license and minimum 1+ years RN experience required. Applicants who do not meet these qualifications will not be considered.

A nursing opportunity is available for an experienced RN to provide high-acuity care in a newly opening step-down unit that will transition into an ICU by the end of the year. This contract role is ideally suited for nurses with ICU or Progressive Care Unit (PCU) experience, particularly those with a cardiac care background.

Location:
Positioned in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, this role offers a chance to work at a major teaching hospital known for its Level 1 Trauma designation and comprehensive cardiac and stroke centers. The area combines a vibrant urban environment with beautiful natural surroundings, providing excellent cultural and recreational opportunities.

Qualifications & Desired Experience:

• Minimum 2 years of ICU or PCU nursing experience (cardiovascular ICU preferred)
• BLS, ACLS, and NIHSS certifications required
• Proficient in cardiac nursing care, including post-open heart surgery, LVAD, and heart transplant patient management (training available)
• Skilled in wound care, EKG interpretation, defibrillation, and managing advanced equipment such as Swan-Ganz catheters and Impella devices
• Experience with pressors, sedation drips, bipap/cpap/hi-flow, trachs, chest tubes, and arterial lines is expected
• Ability to manage complex cardiac patient types, including STEMI/NSTEMI, cardiomyopathy, shock, and post-cardiac catheterization care
• Willingness to float to related units within scope of practice

Responsibilities:

• Deliver direct patient care in a 10-12 bed high-acuity PCU transitioning to ICU
• Manage critical cardiac patients including those post-transplant and advanced surgical procedures
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including intensivists, hospitalists, and telemetry technicians
• Participate in unit orientation and ongoing training

Additional Details:

• Patient ratios start around 1:3-4, transitioning to ICU with ratios of 1:2-3
• Support includes CNA, charge nurse (non-patient load), phlebotomy, PICC, RT and 24/7 hospitalist/intensivist coverage
• Technology used includes EPIC EMR, Alariso IV pumps, and Omnicell med dispensing
• Opportunities to float to other hospital units available

This opportunity is offered as a contract position starting late September or early October. Free parking is provided. The unit uniform color is royal blue.

Winston-Salem itself boasts a rich history, vibrant arts scene, and is known for its universities and medical centers, making it a dynamic location to grow your nursing career.

If you have strong stepdown or ICU experience with a cardiac focus and seek a challenging and rewarding contract assignment, apply today to explore this specialized nursing role.