Step down ICU nurses, also known as progressive care nurses, play a critical role in caring for patients transitioning from intensive care to intermediate or general ward care. They bridge the gap between the higher acuity of an ICU and the lower level of care on a regular hospital floor. Step down units, sometimes called transitional care units, provide a middle ground level of care for patients not requiring intensive monitoring and interventions but still needing closer nursing care than is available on general wards.

As a step down ICU nurse, the primary role involves caring for patients who are clinically stable enough to be moved out of the ICU but still need closer monitoring and care. This includes patients recovering from critical illness or major surgery who have transitioned off ventilators or vasopressors but still require regular vital sign monitoring and focused assessments. Step down nurses have specialized skills in caring for and weaning patients from cardiac monitors, chest tubes, and other devices still in use after ICU discharge.

In addition to clinical skills, step down ICU nurses utilize strong critical thinking, time management, and communication abilities. They must accurately evaluate patients' changing conditions, triage issues, provide focused assessments, and collaborate closely with physicians and other members of the care team. Efficient prioritization and time management are essential when managing a full patient assignment.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $40.00 - $100.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Relocation assistance
• Vision insurance

Medical specialties:

• Critical & Intensive Care
• Emergency Medicine

Physical setting:

• Hospital
• Level II trauma center
• Level I trauma center

Standard shift:

• Day shift

Supplemental schedule:

• Overtime

Weekly schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Education:

• Associate (Preferred)

Experience:

• ICU: 2 years (Required)
• PCU: 2 years (Required)

License/Certification:

• RN License (Required)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Required)
• Night Shift (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Milwaukee, WI (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Milwaukee, WI: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person