CVICU

CVICU / CCU Travel Nurse — Houston, TX

12-Hour Nights | 42-Week Contract | Starts October 26, 2026

This fast-paced Cardiac/Critical Care unit manages high-acuity cardiovascular and mixed ICU patients, including heart failure, STEMI, pulmonary emboli, arrhythmias, and MICU overflow. The unit operates with an open model for cardiology patients, with cardiology fellow coverage available 24/7 and an intensivist model for MICU overflow patients. Respiratory therapy is on the unit around the clock.

Shift & Scheduling

• 7:00 PM – 7:00 AM, 12-hour nights
• Every other weekend required; occasional exceptions based on staffing
• No self-scheduling — travelers fill open slots
• Holiday coverage expected; days before/after holidays may be required
• First to float to similar units

Required Certifications

• ACLS, BLS, NIHSS

Must-Have Clinical Skills

• Ventilator management and troubleshooting, including emergency response to self-extubation or trach displacement; competent suctioning
• Hemodynamic monitoring: PAC, CVP, arterial lines
• Mechanical support: IABP, Impella, sheaths, CRRT
• Sedation/paralytic management with BIS and TOF monitoring
• Drip titration: epinephrine, norepinephrine, vasopressin, dobutamine, milrinone, amiodarone, cardene, and others
• Independent telemetry interpretation

Candidate Profile

Strong candidates bring 3+ years of CVICU/CCU experience, prior travel nursing experience, and a background in high-volume critical care environments.

Contract Details

• Duration: 42 weeks
• Guaranteed hours: 48 per week
• Orientation: Two 12-hour shifts
• Cancellation policy: 4 shifts per 13-week block
• Scrubs: Teal tops and bottoms; solid or coordinating non-terrycloth jacket
• Parking available on and off campus; daily or monthly pass options