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Discussion

PCU-Stepdown info

Hi all,

I am getting ready to apply on a PCU/stepdown as a tech, then as RN in May. I couldn't find a stepdown thread, so if someone can please tell me what type of nurse to patient ratio to expect and usually what type of patients are there would be a big help.

Thanks,

Shannon

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It varies according to what they call PCU. Some are nothing but glorified tele floors and you get anywhere from 4-6 patients. Others are self-contained and just this side of ICU with a lot of really sick patients. Best ratio I ever got in PCU was in Cincinnati, 1:3; worst was 1:5 and occasionally 1:6 in MD. General rule seems to be 1:4 on days and 1:5 nights. You can get anything from fresh post-ops to open heart stepdown (>24 hours out) to detox to vasoactive drips. Lots of total care patients. The post-open hearts are actually easier because they have to get up for meals and walk in the hall!

I work PCU and our ratio is 1:4 days and nights. We unfortunately end up with ICU overflow and it is an intense unit.

Ratio 1:6, 1:5 on a good day...we are intense, post open heart, trauma, drips, vents, pacers etc.

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