Progressive Care Unit (PCU) nurses care for some of the sickest patients outside of the ICU. They must be able to monitor individuals who are on a number of medications and potentially dealing with multiple comorbidities. Progressive care nurses are able to respond rapidly to serious health situations, make in-the-moment problem-solving decisions for the benefit of their patients and monitor vital signs and other feedback to ensure the patient is getting the proper level of care.
When you work as a PCU nurse, you sign up for travel assignments with average lengths between 3 and 13 weeks. You might work alongside a special project team or as a rapid or crisis response nurse.
PCU jobs pay well and are highly sought after. NurseChoice has travel PCU positions available and can help you connect with employers who are in immediate need of qualified clinical professionals.
Rapid Response PCU Nursing Jobs
Hospitals and other healthcare facilities may require rapid response PCU nurses for a variety of reasons, including sudden unplanned staff or skills shortages. New hospitals often have to staff up quickly to meet potential day-one needs, and when an existing hospital opens a new progressive care unit, they may have an immediate need for experienced PCU nurses. In some cases, special projects or other needs may lead to such assignments.
Find the Right PCU Crisis Nursing Job
Nurses who are able to care for patients walking the line between standard wings and the ICU are often called upon during times of crisis. Natural disasters such as hurricanes or flooding can lead to increased patient numbers or reduce the number of traditionally employed RNs who can show up for the job. And during emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic, hospitals in hard-hit areas required assistance from nurses outside of those regions. These types of situations lead to rapid response PCU nursing contracts.
Perks of a PCU Contract Nurse
Nurses working PCU contracts through NurseChoice can earn up to $3,198 per week while on assignment, though pay depends on factors such as experience and location. On top of competitive pay for contracts, travel nurses are eligible for a variety of benefits and perks, including:
- A guaranteed pay program supported by high demand for RNs — you can earn more when working short-term assignments with 48-60 hours per week
- 401(k) options with matching to help you save for retirement
- HMO & PPO health benefits options so you can care for yourself while you're caring for others
- Assistance from an experienced support team, including help with licensure
- Potential bonuses for referring nurse friends who also take on contracts through NurseChoice
NurseChoice is Ready to Help You Build Your Nursing Career
NurseChoice has contract positions across the country for progressive care unit nurses looking for short-term contract positions, particularly as rapid or crisis response RNs. Our recruiters are available to help you through the process and get you on the road to your progress care unit travel nursing career. Complete an application today or contact us to find out more.
*Disclaimer: Wages for PCU travel jobs are based on average rates and may be impacted by facility budgets and seasonality and may include a combination of taxable and non-taxable earnings and reimbursements.
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