RN Cardiac Stepdown Unit

Community Health Systems•Dothan, AL

About The Position

The Registered Nurse (RN) in the Cardiac Step-Down Unit (PCU) at Flowers Hospital provides patient-centered care through assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. The role coordinates and delivers high-quality care according to clinical protocols and provider orders, collaborating with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to support positive outcomes and a compassionate environment for patients and families. The Cardiac Step-Down Unit cares for cardiac patients who no longer need intensive care but require more monitoring and support than a general medical-surgical unit provides. Patients include those transitioning from the CCU, recovering from cardiac catheterization, pacemaker insertion, or ICD placement, and stable cardiac patients requiring continuous telemetry and comprehensive cardiac care.

Requirements

0–2 years of experience in a clinical nursing role or student clinical rotations in an acute care setting required.
RN—Registered Nurse state licensure and/or compact state licensure required.
Basic Life Support (BCLS) required.
Strong knowledge of the nursing process and clinical nursing practices.
Ability to perform thorough patient assessments and communicate findings effectively.
Proficiency in administering medications and monitoring for side effects.
Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in documenting patient care.
Knowledge of safety standards, infection control, and quality improvement initiatives.

Nice To Haves

Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) preferred.
Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) preferred.
Neonatal Resuscitation (NRP) preferred.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and deliver high-quality, patient-centered care in accordance with organizational policies, protocols, and the nursing process.
Conduct thorough patient assessments, document findings accurately, and report changes in condition to appropriate care team members.
Provide age-appropriate care and education using knowledge of human growth and development.
Administer prescribed medications, monitor for side effects, and document administration according to standards of practice.
Assist physicians during procedures within documented competency and skill level.
Collaborate with the healthcare team to develop, implement, and evaluate individualized care plans.
Respond to medical emergencies and participate in life-saving interventions, including CPR and code team activities, as appropriate.
Advocate for patients’ rights and needs and support their participation in care planning and delivery.
Educate patients and families about medical conditions, treatment plans, and post-discharge care.
Implement and follow infection control protocols.
Monitor and operate medical equipment, including IV pumps, monitors, and ventilators, as needed for patient care and safety.
Promote patient safety by following National Patient Safety Goals and maintaining a clean, safe environment.
Participate in audits, chart reviews, and compliance checks.
Make responsible decisions when planning and delegating care based on patient needs and organizational policies.
Document patient care and education thoroughly and promptly in the medical record.
Engage in professional development to maintain clinical competency and knowledge of current nursing standards and regulations.
Participate in performance improvement initiatives, including data collection and process development.
Use telemetry equipment to track heart rhythms, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and other vital signs.
Analyze telemetry data for trends, abnormalities, and potential problems, and report findings to physicians.
Provide direct patient care, including medication administration, wound care, and patient education focused on cardiac health.
Recognize and respond to emergencies such as cardiac arrest and implement appropriate interventions.
Perform other duties as assigned and comply with all policies and standards.