Clinical Decision Unit Nurse Career Guide

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Overview

Clinical Decision Unit (CDU) RNs are specialized nurses who work in a dedicated unit within a hospital where patients receive further observation and evaluation before being admitted to a hospital floor or discharged home. CDU RNs play a crucial role in assessing patients' conditions, monitoring their progress and making critical decisions regarding their care plans. They provide high-quality

Education

To become a CDU RN, aspiring nurses must complete a nursing program and obtain a nursing license. The most common educational path is to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, which typically takes four years to complete. BSN programs offer comprehensive coursework in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology and nursing care across various specialties, including clinical decision

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Related certifications

While there are no specific certifications required to work in a CDU, previous experience in an emergency department, critical care unit or similar acute care setting is beneficial for aspiring CDU RNs. CDU RNs should have strong assessment and critical thinking skills to make timely and accurate decisions about patient care. They must also possess effective communication skills to collaborate

State licenses process and requirements

All 50 states require state licensure to become a professional nurse. Review the step-by-step process to obtain or renew your RN license in each one.
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Skills

Staff and Travel CDU RNs need a diverse set of skills to excel in their role. They must have a strong clinical knowledge base to assess patients' conditions and recognize any changes or deteriorations. Technical skills, such as conducting ECGs and administering intravenous medications, are essential for providing quality care in a clinical decision unit. Effective communication skills

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Responsibilities

The primary responsibility of a CDU RN is to provide comprehensive care to patients in the unit. They conduct thorough assessments of patients upon admission, monitor their vital signs and symptoms and collaborate with physicians to determine the most appropriate course of action. CDU RNs administer medications, perform diagnostic tests and document patient care thoroughly. They educate patients and their

Salary Insights

Compare your pay with the most up-to-date job market data using our comprehensive salary calculator.
Clinical Decision Unit Nurse
$1,833-2,903/week

The average salary for a Clinical Decision Unit Nurse is $2,226.76 per week.

Last updated on November 22, 2024. Based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

Pros & Cons

Pros of becoming a CDU RN include the opportunity to work in a fast-paced and intellectually stimulating environment, the chance to gain experience in various medical conditions and the potential for career growth in acute care nursing. This profession offers the satisfaction of making critical decisions that directly impact patient outcomes.

However, there are some challenges associated with this specialty. CDU

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Clinical Decision Unit Nurse Jobs


View job details for Travel Nurse RN - CDU - Clinical Decision Unit
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - CDU - Clinical Decision Unit

  • Olympia, WA
  • Beyond Medical Staffing
  • 4x12 hrs, Nights

$2,943/week

Estimated pay package
Posted 8 days ago
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - CDU - Clinical Decision Unit
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - CDU - Clinical Decision Unit

  • Olympia, WA
  • Planet Healthcare
  • 4x12 hrs, Nights
  • Referral Bonus

$2,903/week

Estimated pay package
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - CDU - Clinical Decision Unit
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - CDU - Clinical Decision Unit

  • Olympia, WA
  • Nurse First
  • 4x12 hrs, Nights
  • Referral Bonus

$2,902/week

Estimated pay package
 Verified
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - CDU - Clinical Decision Unit
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - CDU - Clinical Decision Unit

  • Olympia, WA
  • Advantis Medical
  • 4x12 hrs, Nights
  • Referral Bonus

$2,479/week

Estimated pay package

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