Duke Careers·Durham, North Carolina
The Registered Nurse will provide professional nursing care, document patient progress, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure high-quality patient outcomes. They are also responsible for teaching patients and families, supervising care providers, and participating in unit-based performance improvement projects.
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 the four Duke Healthhospitals 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 organizationNurses 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)
General Medicine Stepdown/PCU - 8E - Duke University Hospital December 2026 New Graduate RNs *Relocation eligible for RNs located greater than 50 miles from Durham, NC *Up to $25,000 nursing loan forgiveness towards first nursing degree Unit Profile: The General Medicine Stepdown/PCU 8 East comprises 24 beds, 9 of which are in the Pulmonary Care Unit. Our patient population includes COVID/Respiratory with continuous Bipap and Optiflow, Trauma, Transplant, Neuro, Cardiac, OB, and Oncology, GIP Hospice team. Wound Care, Med-Psych, GI. This unit sees a diverse patient population, including COVID and respiratory cases requiring continuous BiPAP and Optiflow, trauma, transplants, neuro, cardiac, OB, oncology, and even GIP hospice care Shift: Rotating shift for 3-6 months then day or night shift, 3/12 hour shifts
Responsibilities: As a Registered Nurse on our Cardiothoracic Stepdown Unit, you will:
Provide and document professional nursing care using the nursing process Collaborate with physicians and multidisciplinary teams Delegate tasks and supervise licensed and unlicensed care providers Assist in maintaining a safe, clean, and resource‑ready environment Participate in ongoing professional development and competency training Teach patients and families in alignment with the care plan Support performance improvement initiatives and unit‑based projects Perform additional duties as assigned to support excellent patient care
Graduation from an accredited Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Nursing Diploma program RNs without a BSN are encouraged to enroll in a BSN program within 2 years; completion required within 7 years of start date
No prior nursing experience required—new graduates encouraged to apply! All Clinical Nurse I (CNI) hires must complete the DUHS Nurse Residency Program within 12 months Eligibility for promotion to CNII within 18 months based on residency program criteria
Licensure & Certifications
Current RN licensure in North Carolina or compact state license (NC licensure required within 60 days of start date) BLS certification (may be renewed during orientation)
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 Pre‑employment Physical Capacity Testing required
Candidates must hold an Associate Degree in Nursing or a Nursing Diploma and possess a current North Carolina RN license or compact state license. No prior experience is required, but applicants must complete the DUHS Nurse Residency Program and maintain BLS certification.
Market context
North Carolina nursing jobs often reflect steady demand in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care settings, especially for RNs who can provide age-appropriate care across patient populations. These roles are competitive because employers typically want an approved nursing-school graduate with a current North Carolina RN or Compact License and active AHA BLS certification. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, and confirm your license status and BLS renewal before applying.