RN - PCU

PCU Registered Nurse (RN)

This position involves working in a versatile unit that accommodates both medical-surgical and intermediate care patients, with the flexibility to adjust room types as needed. The unit has a capacity of 36-48 beds, depending on patient requirements.

The typical patient population includes a mix of medical-surgical and intermediate care patients. The unit sees approximately 90% medical-surgical and 10% intermediate care cases. Common diagnoses treated include:

• Diabetic Keto acidosis (DKA) requiring insulin drips
• Pre/post-surgical patients
• Cellulitis
• Influenza
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
• Pneumonia
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
• Renal failure with or without hemodialysis
• Hepatic failure
• Gastrointestinal disorders and infections
• Soft tissue injuries and minor fractures
• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
• Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA) overflow

The following responsibilities are expected:

• Administer a variety of oral, IV, IM, and SQ medications, as well as titratable vasoactive drips and TPN/tube feedings.
• Perform blood product transfusions and manage various lines including peripheral IVs, midlines, PICCs, and central lines.
• Handle devices such as chest tubes, nasogastric tubes, drains, and urinary/fecal collection devices.
• Provide preventative and restorative skin and wound care.
• Read and interpret telemetry monitoring.

The expected nurse-to-patient ratios vary by acuity level:

• For long lengths of stay (Med Surg/NO Tele): 1:5-6 in one pod with 10-12 patients.
• For Med Surg/Telemetry: 1:5 across two pods with 10-12 patients each.
• For Intermediate Care: 1:4 in one pod with 8 patients, which may include both Med/Tele and IMC patients.

To be eligible for this role, candidates must have:

• At least one year of nursing experience.
• Epic experience is mandatory for first-time travelers.
• Required certifications: BLS, ACLS, and NIHSS.
• A completed nursing education program approved by a board of nursing.
• Registered Nurse (RN) licensure in South Dakota.

Candidates should possess the following skills:

• Comfort with managing medical-surgical assignments.
• Previous experience with the aforementioned patient conditions including IMC/stepdown and neuro patients.
• Ability to read and interpret cardiac strips.
• Competence in wound care and management of various medical devices and drips, including Heparin, Insulin, Cardizem, Amiodarone, and other antihypertensives.

The unit provides support through:

• CNA staff with a ratio of 1:8.
• Charge nurses who do not carry a patient load.
• Access to Phlebotomy and IV/VAT Teams.
• Availability of RT and Hospitalist services 24/7.

Travelers will undergo:

• Two days of unit and department orientation, including policies and protocols.
• Classroom time with the Nursing Professional Development Team.
• Two orientation shifts on the unit working with a preceptor.