Acute Care Nurses
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 NurseCharge NurseProgressive Care Unit RN (Progressive Care Unit Registered Nurse)Staff Nurse
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey 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
| 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
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Microsoft AccessMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft TeamsMicrosoft WordSAP softwareeClinicalWorks EHR software
Technology Skills
Allscripts Professional EHRAmkai AmkaiChartsBizmatics PrognoCIS EMRCerner MillenniumChartWare EMRGE Healthcare Centricity EMRIBM Lotus NotesMedscribbler Enterprise
Tools & Equipment
Alligator forcepsAngiocathsApnea monitorsArterial blood gas testing equipmentArterial line cathetersAutomated external defibrillators AEDAutomated medicine dispensing equipmentAutotransfusion systems