PCU Progressive Care travel nurse jobs offer a unique blend of high-acuity patient care and career flexibility. Sitting between Med-Surg and ICU, Progressive Care Units (PCU)—also known as Step-Down or Intermediate Care—are one of the fastest-growing specialties in travel nursing.
If you’re exploring PCU Progressive Care travel nurse jobs, this guide covers pay, patient ratios, stress levels, required skills, and why so many nurses choose PCU as a travel specialty.
PCU Progressive Care travel nurse jobs are short-term assignments—typically 8 to 13 weeks—where RNs care for patients who need close monitoring but not full ICU-level support.
Common PCU patients include those stepping down from ICU, requiring continuous telemetry, or managing complex medical conditions.
| Unit | Patient Ratio | Acuity |
|---|---|---|
| Med-Surg | 1:5–6 | Low–Moderate |
| PCU | 1:3–4 | Moderate–High |
| ICU | 1:1–2 | Critical |
Most PCU travel nurse assignments have ratios between 1:3 and 1:4. Responsibilities often include telemetry monitoring, IV medication management, respiratory support, and rapid patient assessment.
PCU is often described as one of the most demanding non-ICU specialties. Travel nurses face high expectations, limited orientation, and frequent floating.
Yes. PCU is one of the most common entry points into travel nursing for experienced bedside nurses ready for higher acuity without full ICU intensity.
Anders Group supports PCU Progressive Care travel nurses with nationwide job access, transparent pay packages, and recruiters who understand PCU workflows and expectations.
Find PCU travel nurse jobs nationwide and take the next step in your career.
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