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Cardiothoracic Icu Rn Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Cardiothoracic Icu Rn information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$1.1K

$2.5K

$3.7K

How much do cardiothoracic icu rn jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average weekly pay for cardiothoracic icu rn in Chicago, IL is $2,463.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $2,021.15 and $2,842.31 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cardiothoracic ICU RN?

Cardiothoracic ICU RNs are registered nurses who specialize in caring for critically ill patients recovering from heart (cardiac) or chest (thoracic) surgeries and conditions in an intensive care unit. They closely monitor patients' vital signs, manage life-support equipment, administer medications, and collaborate with physicians and other healthcare professionals. Their role requires advanced skills in critical care, quick decision-making, and the ability to respond to rapidly changing patient conditions. These nurses play a crucial role in helping patients recover from complex surgeries and ensuring the best possible outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cardiothoracic ICU RN?

To thrive as a Cardiothoracic ICU RN, you need expert knowledge of cardiac and thoracic critical care, advanced assessment skills, and an active RN license with relevant ICU experience, often supplemented by certifications like CCRN or ACLS. Familiarity with advanced life support equipment, hemodynamic monitoring systems, and electronic health records is essential. Strong critical thinking, communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills in this high-stakes environment. These competencies ensure optimal patient outcomes, rapid responses to emergencies, and seamless teamwork in a setting where precision and speed are crucial.

What are some unique challenges faced by a cardiothoracic ICU RN, and how can new team members prepare for them?

Cardiothoracic ICU RNs often manage patients recovering from complex heart and lung surgeries, which requires a strong grasp of advanced monitoring equipment and rapid response to critical changes. The fast-paced environment demands excellent teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to handle high-stress situations. New team members can prepare by familiarizing themselves with common post-operative complications, participating in simulation training, and actively seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues. Continuous learning and open communication are key to thriving in this highly specialized and rewarding area.

What is the difference between Cardiothoracic Icu Rn vs Cardiothoracic Surgery Nurse?

AspectCardiothoracic Icu RnCardiothoracic Surgery Nurse
CertificationsRN license, ICU certificationsRN license, perioperative or surgical certifications
Work EnvironmentIntensive care unit, critical care settingsOperating room, surgical wards
Job FocusMonitoring critically ill cardiothoracic patients in ICUPre- and post-operative care for cardiothoracic surgery patients
Employer & IndustryHospitals, critical care unitsHospitals, surgical centers

While both roles involve caring for cardiothoracic patients, the Cardiothoracic Icu Rn primarily works in ICU settings managing critically ill patients, whereas the Cardiothoracic Surgery Nurse focuses on perioperative care before and after surgery. Both require RN licensure, but their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.

Cardiothoracic Icu Rn jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cardiothoracic Icu Rn job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $128,107 per year, or $61.6 per hour.

Travel Nurse RN - ICU - Intensive Care Unit

TNAA TotalMed RN

Arlington Heights, IL • On-site

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

TNAA TotalMed RN is seeking a travel nurse RN ICU - Intensive Care Unit for a travel nursing job in Arlington Heights, Illinois.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: ICU - Intensive Care Unit
  • Discipline: RN
  • Duration: 12 weeks
  • 36 hours per week
  • Shift: 12 hours, nights
  • Employment Type: Travel

We're looking for Intensive Care Unit RNs for an immediate travel nurse opening in Arlington Heights, IL. The right nurse should have 1-2 years recent acute care experience. Read below for more requirements.
As an ICU Travel Nurse, you'll be responsible for evaluating and monitoring patients in an Intensive Care Unit setting. ICU RNs provide the most direct care to patients in life-threatening situations, documenting and providing physician-directed care, assessing and implementing patient care plans, and delegating to other care providers as appropriate. As an ICU RN you will also be providing education and support to patient families, possibly for long-term care needs.
As an ICU Travel Nurse, you should be prepared to perform the following tasks:

  • Provide basic bedside care.
  • Prepare, administer and record prescribed medication, reporting any adverse reactions to treatment.
  • Order and evaluate diagnostic tests.
  • Take samples for lab work, order corresponding lab work and interpret reports.
  • Monitor and adjust specialized equipment, and interpret and record electronic displays.
  • Ensure proper placement and functioning of catheters, leads and tubing.
  • Communicate patients' conditions to family members.
ICU Travel Nurses should be able to stand and walk for long periods of time, as well as bend, lean and stoop without difficulty. RNs should be able to easily lift 20 pounds. Moving or lifting of patients may require lifting of up to 50 pounds at times. RNs may face hazards from exposure to certain chemicals or infectious diseases and will treat patients that may be confused, agitated, and/or uncooperative.
Requirements*: ACLS, BLS, NIH, 2 Years
* Additional certifications may be required before beginning an assignment.

TotalMed Travel Job ID #1473102. Pay package is based on 12 hour shifts and 36 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined. Posted job title: Intensive Care Unit - ICU RN - Travel Nurse

About TNAA TotalMed RN

TotalMed is a Top Ten, travel nursing and healthcare staffing agency with the mission of igniting purpose in healthcare. The organization staffs nurses, therapists, pharmacists, and other clinicians of all specialties in all 50 states. They offer local and travel jobs and match caregivers with the right organization to assist both facilities and patients. As an organization, they focus on putting highly-skilled staff into facilities to ensure adequate staffing for a better patient experience.


TotalMed specializes in recruiting and placing healthcare professionals in travel, PRN, and permanent positions across the country in Nursing and Allied Health. Throughout 2020, the organization filled roles at even the most short-staffed facilities during the most challenging time in healthcare. By matching the right travel healthcare professional with the right organization, TotalMed continues to offer a lifeline to facilities and their patients.

Benefits
  • Weekly pay
  • Guaranteed Hours
  • Continuing Education
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Sick pay
  • Wellness and fitness programs
  • Referral bonus
  • Employee assistance programs
  • Medical benefits
  • Dental benefits
  • Vision benefits
  • Benefits start day 1

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