PCU / Stepdown

Progressive Care Unit (PCU) Registered Nurse

Location: Elizabethtown, KY

Shift: 7:00 PM – 7:00 AM, three 12-hour shifts per week (weekend/holiday rotation)

Contract Duration: 13 weeks

Start Date: November 30, 2026

About the Role

The facility's Progressive Care Unit manages moderate-acuity patients requiring closer monitoring than traditional med-surg but not ICU-level care. You'll care for patients transitioning from critical care, those at risk of clinical deterioration, and those requiring telemetry monitoring and cardiac rhythm surveillance.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct patient care to a moderate patient load (typically 3–4 patients)
• Continuously monitor cardiac rhythms and vital signs; identify and respond promptly to changes in condition
• Administer medications, including select IV drips, per physician orders
• Perform comprehensive assessments using the nursing process; develop and implement individualized care plans
• Collaborate with physicians, intensivists, and the interdisciplinary team on patient outcomes
• Respond to rapid response and code interventions as needed
• Educate patients and families on condition, treatment, and recovery
• Document assessments, interventions, and patient responses accurately
• Maintain infection control and fall prevention protocols
• Participate in unit quality improvement initiatives

Required Qualifications

• Active, unrestricted RN license in Kentucky (or compact license as applicable)
• ADN or ASN; BSN preferred
• BLS certification required
• ACLS certification required
• Minimum 1+ years of PCU or step-down nursing experience
• Experience with telemetry monitoring and moderate-acuity patient management
• Strong clinical assessment and communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment

Preferred Qualifications

• PCCN (Progressive Care Certified Nurse) certification
• Prior progressive care or step-down experience