Registered Nurse (RN) Cardiothoracic Stepdown

Duke Careers • Durham, NC

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Duke University Hospital is seeking an experienced Clinical Nurse (RN) to join our renowned 6 East Cardiothoracic Stepdown Unit. As part of our top-ranked health system, you will provide exemplary nursing care, support complex patient populations, and contribute to a strong culture of collaboration, excellence, and patient-centered service. In this role, you will care for adult patients recovering from a broad range of cardiothoracic procedures—including CABG, heart and lung transplants, valve repair/replacement, aortic and aneurysm repairs, lobectomies, VAD therapy, and other high-acuity conditions. If you’re looking for an environment that challenges your clinical skills and supports your professional growth, this is the place.

Requirements

• Minimum 1 year of prior clinical nursing experience required for Clinical Nurse II (CNII)
• Graduation from an accredited: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), or Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), or Nursing Diploma program
• RNs without a BSN must enroll in a BSN program within 2 years and complete it within 7 years of their start date
• Current RN licensure with the North Carolina Board of Nursing, or compact RN license (NC licensure required within 60 days of start)
• BLS certification required
• Strong understanding of the nursing process and professional nursing practices
• Ability to assess and meet the needs of acute and chronically ill patients
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
• Ability to remain organized, focused, and adaptable in a high-acuity environment
• Competency with computer systems and electronic documentation
• Ability to meet physical requirements, including prolonged standing and walking
• Working knowledge of infection control, safety protocols, and regulatory standards
• Joint Commission compliance familiarity
• Pre-employment Physical Capacity Testing required

Nice To Haves

• Higher certifications preferred
• Professional nursing specialty certification preferred

Responsibilities

• Provide and supervise both direct and indirect nursing care using the nursing process (assessment, planning, implementation, evaluation)
• Deliver advanced and specialized care aligned with the DUHS Professional Practice Model
• Serve as a resource and role model to other staff
• Participate in departmental committees, professional development, the Clinical Ladder Program, research initiatives, and quality improvement activities
• Promote and maintain a patient-centered environment that prioritizes safety, respect, and exceptional service
• Deliver care consistent with North Carolina Board of Nursing scope and regulatory requirements

Benefits

• Relocation Assistance (based on eligibility)
• $15,000 Commitment Bonus for eligible experienced RNs - Paid in four equal installments over 24 months (every six months)
• Up to $25,000 Nurse Loan Forgiveness
• Relocation assistance available for Nurses relocating greater than 50 miles to Durham, NC.
• Access to continuing education, certification support, and evidence-based practice initiatives

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree