Observation Unit

Registered Nurse (RN) - Short Stay Observation Unit

Looking for a nursing role that’s fast-paced, diverse, and rewarding? Mercy Cedar Rapids is hiring Registered Nurses — experienced or new graduates — to join our 28-bed Short Stay Observation Unit. Not every hospital has a unit like this. This unique unit cares for patients who need brief hospital stays (24-48 hours) after the Emergency Department or surgery. You’ll work with a wide variety of patients including post-op ortho, urology, cardiology, and acute pain.

It’s an opportunity to build a broad skill set across multiple specialties while helping patients transition safely and confidently back home.

Schedule That Fits Your Life

• 3-12 hour shifts 7p-7:30a with every third weekend and rotating holidays
• 36 hours/week = full-time pay & benefits

Why Mercy & the Short Stay Observation Unit

• Open to both experienced nurses and new graduates
• Hands-on orientation and mentorship program
• Opportunities to grow across multiple specialties
• A supportive team environment where your voice matters

Mercy Cedar Rapids is an independent locally-managed healthcare system that has served the community for 120+ years.

What You’ll Do

• Deliver safe, high-quality patient-centered care
• Monitor patients recovering from surgery, illness, or acute pain
• Educate patients and families so they feel confident at discharge
• Collaborate closely with physicians, techs, and fellow nurses
• Document accurately and communicate clearly at hand-offs
• Respond quickly to changes in patient condition and emergencies
• Foster a respectful, compassionate, and team-focused environment

Take the Next Step

Keep reading for the full-length job description and continue to create/login to your Mercy Workday account and complete an application.