PCU RN
Springfield, Massachusetts
Baystate Mercy Hospital

Required Qualifications

• Valid RN license in Massachusetts
• Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) / Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
• BLS certification
• ACLS certification
• 1 year of Progressive Care Unit (PCU) experience, with experience within the last year
• 1 year of telemetry experience

Unit Details

• Cardiac telemetry/intermediate care units with 20 beds each
• Adult patients requiring continuous cardiac monitoring, management of acute and chronic cardiac conditions, and treatment of complex medical and cardiovascular illnesses
• Patients admitted from the Emergency Department, transferred from intensive care after stabilization, or admitted for ongoing inpatient medical management

Admission Indications for Continuous Cardiac Monitoring

• Acute coronary syndrome, arrhythmia management, acute respiratory failure, and 2nd or 3rd degree AV block
• CHF with active treatment, drug overdose, and new stroke not requiring fibrinolytic therapy
• Known or suspected pulmonary embolism, QT-prolonging medications, severe electrolyte imbalances, and syncope
• Status post carotid endarterectomy
• Other stable patients requiring telemetry, including those with acute alcohol withdrawal

Clinical Responsibilities

• Medications: antiarrhythmics, antihypertensives, anticoagulants, diuretics, insulin, electrolyte replacement, and IV infusions such as heparin, amiodarone, diltiazem, dobutamine, nitroglycerin, and insulin
• Continuous telemetry monitoring for rhythm abnormalities, including atrial fibrillation, tachyarrhythmias, and bradycardia
• Rhythm interpretation, hemodynamic and vital sign assessment, IV therapy management, and recognition of clinical deterioration
• Heart failure and chest pain management, post-procedure monitoring when appropriate, fall prevention, patient education, and discharge planning

Staffing and Unit Operations

• RNs provide direct care, medication administration, cardiac assessment every 4 hours, and telemetry surveillance every 4 hours and as needed
• Patient care technicians assist with daily living activities, vital signs, mobility, and toileting
• Unit secretaries support communication, coordination, and administrative functions