PCU / Stepdown

PCU / Neuro Stepdown — Night Shift | Nashville, TN

13-Week Contract | 7:00 PM – 7:00 AM | 36 Hours Guaranteed/Week

This combined Acute Care and Neuro Stepdown unit offers a fast-paced environment well-suited for nurses with strong neurological and medical-surgical backgrounds. The unit manages stroke patients on the acute care side and higher-acuity neuro patients in the stepdown area, including those requiring tracheostomy care, BiPAP, high-flow oxygen, chest tubes, and titrating cardiac drips.

Unit at a Glance

• Night shift: 7:00 PM – 7:00 AM
• Weekend shifts required
• Experienced nurses may float after orientation
• Supportive staffing includes a charge RN, unit secretary, and 1–2 techs per shift

Common Procedures

• Lumbar puncture
• Chest tube placement
• Stroke care protocols
• Management of cardiac and neurological drips

Candidate Requirements

• Active RN license (Tennessee or compact)
• BLS required for all candidates
• ACLS required for Neuro Stepdown assignment
• Strong acute care nursing skills and time management
• Neuro stepdown or stepdown experience preferred
• Advanced critical thinking skills essential

Dress Code

• Black, blue (any shade), or grey scrubs
• Any color scrubs on Fridays

Patient Experience Standards

• Bedside shift report
• Daily team huddles
• Emphasis on personal connection with patients

This unit is an excellent stepping stone for nurses with aspirations toward critical care, offering exposure to higher-acuity neuro patients in a collaborative, team-focused environment.