Stepdown Nurse Career Guide

Looking for a different career guide?

Overview

A Stepdown Nurse, also known as a Progressive Care nurse, plays a crucial role in providing intermediate-level care to patients who are transitioning from the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) to general care units. Stepdown nurses specialize in monitoring and managing patients who require a higher level of care than general ward patients but do not require the intense

Education

To become a Stepdown RN, individuals must complete a nursing program and obtain a nursing license. The educational background typically required is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, which takes around four years to complete. Nursing programs can be pursued at accredited universities, colleges, or nursing schools. These programs provide a comprehensive education in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology and

A stethoscope held in one hand

Related certifications

To apply for a Stepdown Nurse position, candidates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain their nursing license. Some healthcare facilities may require additional certifications, such as Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS). Prior experience in an acute care setting, such as an ICU

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.
Select
A stethoscope held in one hand

Skills

Success as a staff or travel Stepdown Nurse requires a combination of knowledge, hard and soft skills and abilities. Stepdown nurses must have a strong understanding of critical care principles, patient monitoring and the ability to interpret and analyze complex medical data. They should be proficient in administering medications, managing advanced life support equipment and collaborating effectively with

Thousands of
healthcare jobs in
your pocket.

4.8

13.6k Ratings

4.4

1.5k Ratings

Responsibilities

Stepdown RNs are responsible for closely monitoring and assessing patients' conditions, recognizing changes and initiating appropriate interventions. They administer medications, perform procedures such as wound care and tracheostomy care and provide education to patients and their families. Stepdown nurses collaborate with healthcare teams to develop and implement individualized care plans, ensure continuity of care and facilitate patient recovery.

Salary Insights

Compare your pay with the most up-to-date job market data using our comprehensive salary calculator.
Stepdown Nurse
$1,929-2,736/week

The average salary for a Stepdown Nurse is $2,327.18 per week.

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

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Opportunity to provide intermediate-level care to patients in critical conditions.

  • Exposure to a wide range of medical conditions and treatments.

  • Enhanced critical thinking and clinical decision-making skills.

  • Collaboration with specialized healthcare professionals.

  • Potential for career advancement and specialization in critical care nursing.

Cons:

  • High patient acuity and complex cases requiring close monitoring.

  • Emotionally demanding situations and exposure to life-threatening conditions.

  • A fast-paced work environment with a heavy workload.

  • Need

Was this page helpful?

Stepdown Nurse Jobs


View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Manager, PCU - Progressive Care Unit
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Manager, PCU - Progressive Care Unit

  • Hartford, CT
  • Trinity Health FirstChoice
  • 5x8 hrs, Days

$4,650/week

Posted 9 days ago
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - PCU - Progressive Care Unit
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - PCU - Progressive Care Unit

  • Utica, NY
  • PHP
  • 4x12 hrs, Nights

$4,102/week

Posted 3 days ago
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - PCU - Progressive Care Unit
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - PCU - Progressive Care Unit

  • Utica, NY
  • Prolink
  • 4x12 hrs, Days

$3,850/week

Posted 2 days ago
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Stepdown
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Stepdown

  • cleveland, OH
  • LanceSoft
  • 4x12 hrs, Nights, Flexible

$3,805/week

Posted 3 days ago

Get alerts about new jobs

Be the first to know about new jobs for Stepdown Nurses.

Some of the content on this page was enhanced using artificial intelligence.

Join over 1 million healthcare workers that are getting a head start with Vivian.

Join Vivian
A group of healthcare professionals.