Registered Nurse (RN) - New Graduate - Cardiology Stepdown

Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center is seeking a Registered Nurse (RN) for the Cardiology Stepdown unit (7 Reynolds Cardiology). This is a full-time position on the night shift, ideal for new graduates entering the nursing profession. You will provide high-quality, patient-centered care using evidence-based practice and clinical expertise while working with an interdisciplinary team to promote optimal health outcomes.

Clinical Setting

You will work in a 36-bed cardiology stepdown unit at a major academic medical center. The unit serves patients transitioning from intensive care or those requiring close cardiac monitoring. Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center is part of Advocate Health, the third-largest nonprofit integrated health system in the United States, nationally recognized for expertise in cardiology, neurosciences, oncology, pediatrics, rehabilitation, organ transplants, burn treatments, and specialized musculoskeletal programs.

Responsibilities

• Utilize the nursing process to assess, plan, diagnose, implement, and evaluate nursing care while engaging patients and families throughout the continuum of care
• Monitor patient conditions, adjust care plans, mobilize resources, and collaborate with the care team to influence care outcomes
• Administer medications, treatments, and therapies safely according to clinical protocols and procedures
• Maintain accurate and timely electronic health record (EHR) documentation
• Demonstrate effective communication, feedback, and conflict resolution to foster team collaboration
• Delegate appropriately to other Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, and unlicensed assistive personnel
• Uphold and promote a culture of safety
• Engage in unit councils, professional governance, and quality initiatives to improve care processes and apply evidence-based practices
• Continuously evaluate patient, team, and unit outcomes and take action as needed
• Adhere to the ANA Code of Ethics, practice ethical decision-making, respect interdisciplinary roles, and contribute to integrated, unbiased patient care
• Pursue professional development, complete required education, and maintain certifications
• Demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary to provide age-appropriate care and assess patient status relative to age-specific needs
• May be required to float to other units, departments, care areas, or facilities within the designated service area to meet patient care needs

Schedule

• Full-time position
• 36 hours per week
• Night shift

Required Qualifications

• Graduate of a Board of Nursing approved nursing education program
• Active Registered Nurse (RN) multi-state compact and/or single-state license with privileges to practice in the state(s) where providing nursing services
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
• Strong clinical judgment and critical thinking
• Time management, prioritization, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Proficiency in computer functions including email, electronic records, and digital platforms

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, lift, squat, bend, reach above shoulders, and twist frequently throughout the workday
• Ability to lift and support the weight of 35 pounds in handling patients, medical equipment, and supplies
• Ability to push/pull with 30 pounds of force and perform a sliding transfer of 150 pounds with a second person present
• Functional speech, vision, hearing, and touch with ability to use fine hand manipulation skills for IV insertion and other procedures
• Ability to maneuver foot pedals on carts or machines
• Ability to perform physical safety interventions such as patient restraint and verbal de-escalation if needed
• Ability to respond quickly to changes in patient and/or unit conditions
• May be exposed to chemical and hazardous waste as well as blood and body fluids and communicable disease; protective clothing and equipment must be worn as necessary
• Physical Abilities Testing may be required

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing (BSN)

Compensation

• Base compensation: $38.20 - $57.30 per hour
• Compensation within the range based on qualifications, skills, relevant experience, and/or training
• Premium pay available for shift differentials and on-call duties
• Opportunity for annual increases based on performance

Benefits

Advocate Health offers a comprehensive Total Rewards package including:

• Paid Time Off programs
• Health and welfare benefits: medical, dental, vision, life, and Short- and Long-Term Disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts for eligible health care and dependent care expenses
• Family benefits including adoption assistance and paid parental leave
• Defined contribution retirement plans with employer match and other financial wellness programs
• Educational Assistance Program

Note: Eligibility for benefits programs may depend on your FTE or employment status. Please ask a recruiter for more information during your interview.

License and Practice Requirements

Licensed nurses practicing via telehealth, telenursing, or virtual modalities are required to be licensed or hold the privilege to practice in the state(s) where clients are located. Licensed nurses are responsible and accountable for knowing, understanding, and practicing in compliance with the laws, rules, regulations, and standards of practice of the state(s) where clients are located.