CVU Stepdown RN
Omaha, NE
Host Healthcare
3x12 hrs, Nights
Referral Bonus

Registered Nurse (RN) – CVU 5E Unit

Location: Omaha, Nebraska
Contract Length: 13 weeks
Shift: 12-hour shifts (0630-1900, 1830-0700)
Weekend Requirement: Every other weekend
Orientation: 1-2 shifts tailored to experience and needs

Unit Description

• Combined unit including Cardio/General ICU, PCU, and MedSurg patients
• 18 beds total
• Nurse-to-patient ratios: 1:4 generally, 1:3 for post-surgical patients in the first 24 hours
• Patient population includes intermediate care and downgraded CVICU patients
• Unit supports thoracic program, electrophysiology, cath lab, and structural heart services
• Common diagnoses: CVAs, CHF, A-fib with RVR, and other cardiac/vascular conditions

Required Certifications

• BLS (Basic Life Support)
• ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support)
• NIHSS (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale)

Experience Requirements

• Minimum 1 year of experience with this patient population (cardiac/vascular intermediate care)
• Must be able to titrate drips (e.g., Amiodarone, Nitro, Nicardipine, Epinephrine, Cardizem, and others)

Clinical Responsibilities

• RNs must read and interpret telemetry strips
• RNs troubleshoot respiratory equipment such as BiPAP, CPAP, and nasal cannula
• Charge nurse present on each shift, rarely takes patient assignment
• Patient care techs/aides available at a ratio of 1:18
• Hospitalist and intensivist coverage 24/7; cardiology on call after hours
• Respiratory therapist available 24/7 in ICU

Additional Information

• Must pass a 90% score on a pass/fail open book exam during orientation
• Floating required to same or lower acuity units
• Dress code: Navy blue scrubs
• Artificial nails are prohibited
• Driver’s license required at submission
• No call or standby requirement

Summary

This is an immediate need for an experienced RN with cardiac intermediate care skills, capable of managing telemetry, titrating drips, and working in a combined ICU/PCU/MedSurg environment. The role requires strong critical care knowledge, certifications in BLS, ACLS, and NIHSS, and the ability to pass a skills exam during orientation.