Provide advanced nursing care for patients with acute conditions such as heart attacks, respiratory distress syndrome, or shock. May care for pre- and post-operative patients or perform advanced, invasive diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.
SOC: 29-1141.01
Common Job Titles
Cardiac Interventional Care Nurse
Charge Nurse
Progressive Care Unit RN (Progressive Care Unit Registered Nurse)
Staff Nurse
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeSynthesize comprehensive clinical data from multiple sources to formulate evidence-based care plans for patients with complex acute conditions such as respiratory distress syndrome or shock.
Advanced
KnowledgeEvaluate patient laboratory results, vital signs, and hemodynamic data in acute care settings to determine immediate treatment priorities and interventions.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform advanced invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures using specialized equipment such as arterial line catheters, central lines, and chest drains following evidence-based protocols.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate patient-centered care principles with critical care protocols when managing patients and families experiencing acute medical crises and trauma.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate mechanical ventilators, infusion pumps, and hemodynamic monitoring equipment to provide life-sustaining respiratory and circulatory support under time-critical conditions.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess rapidly changing patient conditions and responses to therapeutic interventions in pre- and post-operative settings, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate for patient safety and quality care standards when coordinating care across multidisciplinary teams during acute medical emergencies.
Proficient
Hands-onDemonstrate mastery of emergency resuscitation techniques and airway management using manual resuscitation bags, intubation equipment, and automated external defibrillators during cardiac arrests.
Proficient
KnowledgeJustify clinical decisions and treatment modifications through comprehensive documentation in electronic health record systems following regulatory and accreditation requirements.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze electrocardiogram readings and cardiac monitor data to identify life-threatening arrhythmias and cardiovascular emergencies requiring immediate intervention.
Developing
KnowledgeApply pharmacological knowledge and medication administration protocols to manage complex therapeutic regimens including vasoactive medications and pain management in critically ill patients.
Developing
MindsetSupport professional development and clinical competency by educating and mentoring nursing staff and students in advanced acute care practices.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Acute Care Nurses (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
3,282,010
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $66,030. 25th percentile: U.S. $78,610. 50th percentile: U.S. $93,600. 75th percentile: U.S. $107,960. 90th percentile: U.S. $135,320. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$66,030
10% of workers earn the following or more
$135,320
Workers on average earn
$98,430
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Medicine and Dentistry4.6/5
Customer and Personal Service4.4/5
English Language4.3/5
Education and Training4.1/5
Psychology4.1/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
