Registered Nurse (Experienced RN) - Cardiothoracic Stepdown

Duke Clinical Research Institute
relocation assistance
United States, North Carolina, Durham
300 West Morgan Street (Show on map)
Feb 03, 2026
At Duke Health, we're driven by a commitment to compassionate care that changes the lives of patients, their loved ones, and the greater community. No matter where your talents lie, join us and discover how we can advance health together. About Duke University Hospital Pursue your passion for caring with Duke University Hospital in Durham, North Carolina, which is consistently ranked among the best in the United States. The largest of Duke Health's four hospitals with 1062 patient beds, it features comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic facilities, including a regional emergency/trauma center, an endo-surgery center, and more. Duke Nursing Highlights: Duke University Health System is designated as a Magnet organization Nurses from each hospital are consistently recognized each year as North Carolina's Great 100 Nurses. Duke University Health System was awarded the American Board of Nursing Specialties Award for Nursing Certification Advocacy for being strong advocates of specialty nursing certification. Duke University Health System has 6000 + registered nurses Quality of Life: Living in the Triangle! Relocation Assistance (based on eligibility) Registered Nurse (Experienced RN) - 6100/6300/6 East - Cardiothoracic Stepdown Unit Hiring Incentives * $15,000 Commitment Bonus for eligible experienced RNs- Paid in four equal installments over 24 months (every six months) * Up to $25,000 Nurse Loan Forgiveness * Relocation assistance available for Nurses relocating greater than 50 miles to Durham, NC. Experienced Registered Nurse (RN) - Cardiothoracic Stepdown Unit (6100/6300/6 East) Duke University Health System - Duke University Hospital Location: Durham, NC Schedule: Full Time \| Rotating 12hour Shifts Join a HighPerforming Cardiothoracic Care Team at Duke Health Duke University Hospital is seeking an experienced Clinical Nurse (RN) to join our renowned 6100/6300/6 East Cardiothoracic Stepdown Unit. As part of our topranked health system, you will provide exemplary nursing care, support complex patient populations, and contribute to a strong culture of collaboration, excellence, and patientcentered service. In this role, you will care for adult patients recovering from a broad range of cardiothoracic procedures-including CABG, heart and lung transplants, valve repair/replacement, aortic and aneurysm repairs, lobectomies, VAD therapy, and other highacuity conditions. If you're looking for an environment that challenges your clinical skills and supports your professional growth, this is the place. Job Summary As a Clinical Nurse (RN) at Duke University Health System, you will: Provide and supervise both direct and indirect nursing care using the nursing process (assessment, planning, implementation, evaluation) Deliver advanced and specialized care aligned with the DUHS Professional Practice Model Serve as a resource and role model to other staff Participate in departmental committees, professional development, the Clinical Ladder Program, research initiatives, and quality improvement activities Promote and maintain a patientcentered environment that prioritizes safety, respect, and exceptional service Deliver care consistent with North Carolina Board of Nursing scope and regulatory requirements What You'll Bring Knowledge, Skills & Experience Required Minimum 1 year of prior clinical nursing experience required for Clinical Nurse II (CNII) Graduation from an accredited: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), or Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), or Nursing Diploma program RNs without a BSN must enroll in a BSN program within 2 years and complete it within 7 years of their start date Licensure & Certifications Current RN licensure with the North Carolina Board of Nursing, or compact RN license (NC licensure required within 60 days of start) BLS certification required (higher certifications preferred) Professional nursing specialty certification preferred Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Strong understanding of the nursing process and professional nursing practices Ability to assess and meet the needs of acute and chronically ill patients Excellent communication and collaboration skills Ability to remain organized, focused, and adaptable in a high-acuity environment Competency with computer systems and electronic documentation Ability to meet physical requirements, including prolonged standing and walking Working knowledge of infection control, safety protocols, and regulatory standards Joint Commission compliance familiarity Preemployment Physical Capacity Testing required Why Duke Health? Work alongside nationally recognized cardiothoracic specialists Opportunities for clinical advancement through Duke's Clinical Ladder Program A collaborative, supportive team culture that values professional development Access to continuing education, certification support, and evidencebased practice initiatives Commitment to excellence, innovation, and wholeperson patient care Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation or military status. Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas-an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values. Essential Physical Job Functions: Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.