Local Progressive Care Unit (PCU) Nurse Jobs
Progressive care unit (PCU) nurses provide treatment to patients who have chronic diseases or who are recovering from surgeries or complicated wounds. PCU patients have often been released from an intensive care unit and are progressing toward an eventual discharge.
Progressive care nurses: responsibilities, qualifications, and salary
Scope of practice
PCU nurses monitor and assess ill patients who may be on multiple medications. They also respond to emergencies and help physicians prepare patients for release. Some of their tasks include:
- Performing continuous evaluations
- Monitoring patient progress
- Changing dressings
- Administering medications
- Assisting with bedside procedures
- Accurately reporting patient progress to other team members
- Preparing medical equipment
PCU nurses need to be advocates for their patients, and they must offer necessary education to patients and their families to make informed treatment decisions.
Required education and training
The first step in becoming a PCU nurse is to get your RN license. You can do this by obtaining an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The latter tends to be the option that offers the most employment opportunities. If you’re already an RN and you have your ADN, you can choose a program that helps you get a BSN more rapidly.
When you have your degree, you must pass the NCLEX to receive licensure. You must then get certification to start working as a PCU nurse through the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN). PCU certification requires at least two years and 1,750 hours of experience caring for acutely ill patients.
Local PCU nurse salary and benefits
PCU nurse salaries are determined by a number of factors, including years of experience, the location of the facility, and employer. PCU nurses can expect to make a bit more per year than the average RN.
As a PCU nurse with Prolink, you’ll receive our industry-standard benefits package, which includes:
- Health insurance, including day-one medical coverage
- Dental and vision coverage
- 401(k) with day-one contributions and available match
- Life insurance
- Short- and long-term disability coverage
- Extension and referral bonuses
PCU nurse FAQs
PCU nurses offer basic patient care, including administering medications and assisting them with bathing, as well as advanced patient care. This can involve providing first aid, administering IVs, and helping with wound care. PCU nurses also update all patient logs and handle paperwork, including discharge procedures.
These nurses must offer patient education and collaborate with the entire healthcare team to provide comprehensive care.
Most facilities require you to be a registered nurse with a BSN to work in a progressive care unit. Some may accept an associate degree in nursing, but the majority don’t. If you already have your RN license but don’t have a BSN, you can find online programs that help you earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing faster.
You’ll then have to gain at least two years of experience and earn your PCU certification before you can begin working as an entry-level PCU nurse.
A progressive care unit helps patients who need a higher level of care than a standard medical-surgical floor offers but who don’t require intensive care. PCU nurses can help patients who have cardiac conditions, like congestive heart failure, and individuals struggling with respiratory illnesses, like severe pneumonia and COPD.
PCU nurses can also provide care for patients with neurological conditions like mild traumatic brain injuries, as well as those with trauma injuries and metabolic disorders.
To offer effective care, progressive care nurses must have a high level of emotional intelligence to understand what patients are going through. Resilience is another key soft skill that allows them to move forward after experiencing negative patient outcomes. Resilience helps PCU nurses manage tough situations while prioritizing patient care.
PCU nurses must also have the ability to communicate effectively. They must help patients understand their conditions and related treatments so they can make informed decisions.
Making a choice between local contracts and travel nursing opportunities stands out as one of the toughest career decisions PCU nurses face. The decision carries extra weight now since demand for PCU nurses keeps growing at healthcare facilities nationwide.
PCU nursing opens up several career paths that come with unique benefits. Local PCU nurse jobs give you stability and a familiar workplace to call home. PCU travel nurse jobs, on the other hand, typically pay more and let you experience different settings. The core responsibilities stay the same, but your lifestyle, pay, and chances to grow professionally are substantially different between these options.
Start Searching for Local Jobs Today!
Finding the right PCU position demands more than just scrolling through endless job boards and hoping for the best. Healthcare professionals need a trusted partner who understands their unique career goals and workplace preferences.
Prolink offers that extra human touch to provide qualified PCU nurses with rewarding opportunities across the country. From competitive compensation packages to professional development resources, Prolink offers the professionals we work with a world-class experience.
Find your next PCU nurse job with Prolink
Prolink stands out as a great choice for PCU nurses looking for their next assignment. Our steadfast dedication to your success and large network of healthcare facilities create the perfect setting for career growth in the ever-changing world of healthcare.
When you partner with Prolink, you receive an industry-leading benefits package:
- Day-one health insurance and 401(k)
- Dental and vision coverage
- Short- and long-term disability
- Life insurance
- Exclusive perks and discounts
Apply to Healthcare Positions Near You
Prolink’s specialists are ready to help you take your next smart career step. Start now.
