Travel Nurse RN - PCU - Progressive Care Unit
Rapid City, SD
Thrive Staffing
4x12 hrs, Days

Location

Rapid City, SD

General Information

• Level II Trauma Center
• Level III NICU
• Level II Pediatric Trauma
• Magnet Status Designation
• Primary Stroke and Chest Pain Center
• Teaching Hospital with 417 Beds
• 64 beds spread across 2 floors

Position Overview

The Intermediate/Stepdown Level Registered Nurse (RN) plays a crucial role in providing high-quality care to a diverse patient population. This position entails managing both intermediate care patients and those requiring telemetry and medical-surgical care.

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive nursing care to patients with varying acuity levels, ensuring adherence to established protocols and standards.
• Monitor and interpret patient telemetry; manage cardiac strips, chest tubes, and tracheostomy care.
• Assist with daily nursing tasks, including medication administration, TPN/tube feeding, and blood product transfusions.
• Perform wound care and dressing changes, including wound vac management.
• Administer drip titration for medications such as Heparin, Insulin, and Amiodarone with training available for newly hired staff.
• Contribute to a collaborative environment by working alongside physicians, nursing staff, and allied health professionals.

Patient Types

• Surgical: Urology, general abdominal surgeries, and more
• Orthopedic: Total joints and trauma management
• Neuro/Spine: Post-operative care for CVA, TIA, seizures, and other neuro-related conditions
• General Medical: Care for various conditions such as infection, respiratory illnesses, and renal failure

Patient Ratios

• RN:PCU ratio of 1:4 (also applicable for MedSurg assignments)
• CNA ratio of 1:8

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of nursing experience required, including previous experience with IMC/stepdown acuity.
• EPIC experience is mandatory.
• Competence in reading and interpreting cardiac strips and managing chest tubes and tracheostomy patients.
• Education: Completion of a nursing education program approved by the board of nursing; Registered Nurse (RN) licensed in South Dakota.
• Required certifications: BLS, ACLS, NIHSS.

Support Structure

The unit operates on a pod structure with each pod accommodating 8 patients, staffed by 2 RNs and 1 Nursing Aide. A flex nurse is available daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, and nursing clinician support is provided during the day shift.

Orientation and Scheduling

• 2 days of unit/department orientation, including policies, protocols, and online learning resources.
• Two orientation shifts with preceptors on the unit.
• 6-week scheduling cycles with potential weekend shifts, requiring flexibility to work up to 4 of 6 weekends.
• No mandatory on-call shifts; extra shifts may require being placed on call if adequate staffing allows.
• Requests for time off will be considered within the framework of the contract.

Additional Information

• Precepting of nursing students may be expected.
• Compliance with monthly audits for pre/post pain scoring must meet the established standards.
• Free parking is available on-site.

This is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated and skilled RN seeking to advance their career in a supportive and dynamic healthcare environment.