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Cardiothoracic Icu Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Centstone HC

RN- Cardiothoracic ICU (CTICU)

Utica, NY · On-site

$2.2K - $2.4K/wk

RN- Cardiothoracic ICU (CTICU) * Location: Utica, NY, 13502 * Duration: 13 week contract * Shift: 12-hr Days | 6:30a-7p * Guaranteed Hours: 36 hours per week * Weekly Pay Rate: $2,232-$2,412 ...

Centstone HC

RN- Cardiothoracic ICU (Day Shift)

Utica, NY · On-site

$2.2K - $2.4K/wk

Registered Nurse- Cardiothoracic ICU (Day Shift) Location: Utica, NY, 13502 Duration: 13-week Contract Shift: 12-hr Days Guaranteed Hours: 36 hours per week Weekly Pay: $2,232 - $2,412; (Negotiable ...

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How much do cardiothoracic icu jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for cardiothoracic icu in the United States is $49.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.94 and $58.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cardiothoracic Icu vs Cardiothoracic Surgeon?

AspectCardiothoracic IcuCardiothoracic Surgeon
CredentialsRegistered Nurse or Critical Care CertificationMedical Degree (MD), Surgical Residency, Board Certification
Work EnvironmentIntensive Care Unit, hospital setting, patient monitoringOperating rooms, surgical wards, outpatient clinics
Primary ResponsibilitiesPatient care, monitoring, supporting recovery in ICUPerforming heart and chest surgeries, pre- and post-op care

The main difference is that Cardiothoracic ICU staff focus on critical patient care and monitoring after surgeries, while Cardiothoracic Surgeons perform the surgical procedures themselves. Both roles are essential in the cardiac care continuum but require different training and responsibilities.

What is the hardest ICU to work in a nurse?

The cardiothoracic ICU is considered one of the most challenging units for nurses due to the complexity of cardiac and thoracic patient care, the need for advanced skills in ventilator management, hemodynamic monitoring, and rapid response to critical changes. Nurses in this unit often work long shifts with high patient acuity, requiring specialized training and strong critical thinking skills.

What do cardiothoracic ICU nurses do?

Cardiothoracic ICU nurses provide specialized care to patients recovering from heart and chest surgeries, such as bypass or transplant procedures. They monitor vital signs, manage ventilators, administer medications, and collaborate with medical teams to ensure patient stability and recovery in a high-acuity environment. Certification in critical care nursing is often required for this role.

What are Cardiothoracic ICU nurses?

Cardiothoracic ICU nurses are specialized registered nurses who care for patients recovering from heart (cardiac) and lung (thoracic) surgeries or serious conditions in the intensive care unit. They monitor patients’ vital signs, administer medications, manage life-support equipment, and provide critical care after procedures such as open-heart surgery or lung transplants. These nurses work closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible outcomes for critically ill patients.

What kind of ICU nurse makes the most money?

In the ICU setting, critical care nurses specializing in cardiothoracic intensive care often earn higher salaries due to the complexity of their work and specialized skills. Factors such as experience, certifications like CCRN or CVRN, and working in high-demand regions can also increase earning potential for ICU nurses. Generally, nurses with advanced certifications and extensive experience in cardiothoracic ICU environments tend to make the most money.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cardiothoracic ICU Nurse, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cardiothoracic ICU Nurse, you need advanced critical care knowledge, cardiac and thoracic patient assessment skills, and a current RN license, often with a BSN and CCRN certification preferred. Familiarity with ventilators, hemodynamic monitoring systems, and electronic health records is essential for managing complex post-surgical patients. Excellent communication, quick decision-making, and emotional resilience help you support patients and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure the delivery of safe, high-quality care in a high-stakes, fast-paced ICU environment.

What are some common challenges faced by nurses in a Cardiothoracic ICU, and how can they prepare for them?

Nurses in a Cardiothoracic ICU often deal with critically ill patients recovering from complex heart and lung surgeries, which can be both physically and emotionally demanding. Challenges include managing rapidly changing patient conditions, operating advanced life-support equipment, and collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams. To prepare, candidates should strengthen their skills in critical care, learn to remain calm under pressure, and seek mentorship from experienced colleagues. Continuous education and strong communication abilities are also vital for success in this high-acuity environment.

What is a cardiothoracic ICU?

A cardiothoracic ICU is a specialized intensive care unit that provides care for patients recovering from heart and chest surgeries, such as cardiac bypass or lung procedures. Staff in this unit, including nurses and physicians, monitor vital signs, manage ventilators, and administer medications to support patient recovery. Working in this environment requires knowledge of cardiovascular and respiratory systems, as well as critical care skills and certifications like ACLS or CCRN.
What cities are hiring for Cardiothoracic Icu jobs? Cities with the most Cardiothoracic Icu job openings:
Cardiothoracic ICU jobs near you

RN- Cardiothoracic ICU (CTICU)

Centstone HC

Utica, NY • On-site

$2.2K - $2.4K/wk

Contractor

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

RN- Cardiothoracic ICU (CTICU)
  • Location: Utica, NY, 13502
  • Duration: 13 week contract
  • Shift: 12-hr Days | 6:30a-7p
  • Guaranteed Hours: 36 hours per week
  • Weekly Pay Rate: $2,232–$2,412; (Negotiable based on experience)

    Job Summary:

    We are seeking an experienced Cardiothoracic ICU RN to join a fast-paced ICU team. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with fresh heart transplants and thrive in a high-acuity environment.

      Responsibilities:

      • Provide direct patient care for critically ill cardiothoracic patients, including post-operative care for fresh heart transplant patients.
      • Monitor, assess, and document patient status using EPIC.
      • Administer medications, treatments, and interventions in accordance with physician orders and ICU protocols.
      • Respond promptly to changes in patient condition and escalate concerns appropriately.
      • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure continuity of care.
      • Maintain compliance with hospital policies, regulatory requirements, and safety standards.

        Requirements:

        • 2+ years experience required.
        • Hands-on experience with fresh heart transplant patients is REQUIRED.
        • ACLS, BLS, and NIHSS certifications REQUIRED.
        • EPIC experience REQUIRED.
        • Travel nursing experience REQUIRED

          Additional Info:

          • Will take local candidates.
          • Local Rate applies for candidates residing within 75 miles.

          Apply Now:
          Send your resume — we’ll reach out within 24 hours.