PCU

Progressive Care Unit (PCU) – Registered Nurse

Council Bluffs, IA | 12-Hour Night Shift (7:00 PM – 7:00 AM) | 13-Week Contract

About the Role

Join a fast-paced progressive care unit caring for patients transitioning from intensive care or at risk of clinical deterioration. You'll provide direct care to moderate-acuity patients including those with heart failure, atrial fibrillation, respiratory distress, and stroke. This is a dynamic environment with frequent admits and discharges, requiring strong clinical judgment and a collaborative mindset.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a patient load of 4, providing comprehensive assessment and monitoring
• Interpret telemetry strips and continuously monitor cardiac rhythms and vital signs
• Administer medications and titrate IV drips (Cardizem, amiodarone, nitroprusside, and others) per physician orders
• Respond to rapid responses and code situations as needed
• Collaborate with physicians and the interdisciplinary team on care planning
• Educate patients and families on condition, treatment, and recovery
• Document assessments and interventions accurately in the EMR
• Support infection control and fall prevention protocols

Requirements

• Active RN license (state or compact)
• BSN required; ADN considered per facility policy
• Current BLS, ACLS, and NIHSS certifications
• Minimum 1 year of PCU/step-down experience
• Strong telemetry and moderate-acuity patient management skills
• Valid driver's license

What to Expect

• Charge nurse present on shift (carries full patient assignment)
• Nursing assistants available (1:10 ratio)
• One-shift unit-specific orientation
• Every-other-weekend schedule; 1 major and 1 minor holiday required
• May float to ICU if appropriate and experienced
• Cyclic scheduling with two shift options: 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM or 6:30 PM – 7:00 AM

Start Date: August 31, 2026