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Entry Level Rn Observation Unit Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

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Entry Level Rn Observation Unit information

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$38.7K

$71.9K

$101.3K

How much do entry level rn observation unit jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level rn observation unit in Phoenix, AZ is $71,887.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,500.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level RN in an Observation Unit, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level RN in an Observation Unit, you need a nursing degree, current RN licensure, and a solid understanding of patient monitoring and acute care protocols. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), telemetry equipment, and hospital communication systems is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and compassionate communication help build trust with patients and support teamwork. These skills ensure accurate patient monitoring, timely interventions, and effective coordination in a fast-paced observation setting.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry-level RNs working in an Observation Unit, and how can I prepare for them?

As an entry-level RN in an Observation Unit, you may encounter challenges such as managing fluctuating patient acuity, adapting to rapid patient turnover, and prioritizing care for multiple patients. These units often require strong assessment skills and the ability to quickly recognize changes in patient conditions. To prepare, it's helpful to familiarize yourself with common protocols, practice effective time management, and develop strong communication skills for collaborating with physicians and other team members. Seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues can also ease your transition and boost your confidence.

What is an Entry Level RN in an Observation Unit?

An Entry Level RN (Registered Nurse) in an Observation Unit is a newly licensed nurse who provides care for patients who require short-term monitoring and evaluation, typically for up to 24-48 hours. These patients are not sick enough for inpatient admission but require more observation than can be provided in the emergency department. The RN's responsibilities include monitoring vital signs, administering medications, performing assessments, and communicating with the healthcare team to determine if patients should be admitted or discharged. This role is ideal for new graduates gaining experience in acute care settings.

What is the difference between Entry Level Rn Observation Unit vs Entry Level Rn Emergency Room?

AspectEntry Level Rn Observation UnitEntry Level Rn Emergency Room
CertificationsRN license, Basic Life Support (BLS)RN license, BLS, Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) often preferred
Work EnvironmentHospital observation units, short-term patient monitoringEmergency departments, high-pressure acute care setting
Patient Care FocusMonitoring stable patients, assessing symptoms, short-term treatmentHandling critical emergencies, trauma, rapid response
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Both roles require an RN license and BLS certification. The Observation Unit focuses on monitoring stable patients in a controlled environment, while the Emergency Room involves managing critical, urgent cases in a fast-paced setting. Understanding these differences helps nurses choose the right career path based on their skills and interests.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rn Observation Unit jobs in Phoenix, AZ? The most popular types of Rn Observation Unit jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:
What cities near Phoenix, AZ are hiring for Entry Level Rn Observation Unit jobs? Cities near Phoenix, AZ with the most Entry Level Rn Observation Unit job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Rn Observation Unit job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,887 per year, or $34.6 per hour.
Registered Nurse RN Observation PCU Unit

Registered Nurse RN Observation PCU Unit

Banner Health

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life

Posted 24 days ago


Banner Health rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 741 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

217th of 864 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Primary City/State:

Phoenix, Arizona

Department Name:

Outpatient Observation Unit

Work Shift:

Day

Job Category:

Nursing

$10,000 Sign on bonus!

Good health care is key to a good life. At Banner Health, we understand that, and that’s why we work hard every day to make a difference in people’s lives. Do you like the idea of making a positive change in people’s lives – and your own? If so, this could be the perfect opportunity for you. 

Banner - University Medical Center Phoenix has held Magnet status since 2005 and was recently bestowed its fourth consecutive Magnet designation by The American Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC). This designation is considered the gold standard of nursing excellence. What makes this truly extraordinary is only 1% of hospitals nationwide have achieved this designation four times.

The Observation unit fills a vital need by providing a setting of care for patients not requiring an inpatient admission to receive additional diagnostic workup beyond the scope of a typical Emergency Department visit. Utilizing a 4:1 ratio and a mix LPN model. The growth of observation medicine has been driven by innovations in healthcare, an ongoing shift of patients from inpatient to outpatient settings. Banner University Medical Center offers an Outpatient in a Bed Ortho/Cardiac Post Procedural Recovery portion of the Observation unit.

The Day Shift Hours are 7am-7:30pm. You will have the opportunity utilize our self-scheduling tool for shift and weekend coverage.

Your pay and benefits are important components of your journey at Banner Health. Banner Health offers a variety of benefits to help you and your family. We provide health and financial security options so you can focus on being the best at what you do and enjoying your life.

** $10,000 Sign-on bonus for RNs with a minimum of 12 months of RN experience; requires a 1 year commitment.

If you are a New Graduate Nurse with less than 12 months of experience, please visit the main job search page and use keywords RN New Grad to search for openings

University Medical Center Phoenix is a nationally recognized academic medical center. The world-class hospital is focused on coordinated clinical care, expanded research activities and nurturing future generations of highly trained medical professionals. Our commitment to nursing excellence has enabled us to achieve Magnet™ recognition by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. The Phoenix campus, long known for excellent patient care, has over 730 licensed beds, several unique specialty units and is the new home for medical discoveries, thanks to our collaboration with the University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix. Additionally, the campus responsibilities include fully integrated multi-specialty and sub-specialty clinics.

POSITION SUMMARY
This position assesses, plans, implements, evaluates and documents nursing care of patients in accordance with organizational policies and in accordance with standards of professional nursing practice utilizing the framework for professional nursing practice and development. This position is accountable for the quality of nursing services delivered by self or others who are under their direction. This position utilizes specialized knowledge, judgment, and nursing skills necessary to assess data and plan, provide and evaluate care appropriate to the physical and developmental age of assigned patients.
CORE FUNCTIONS
1. Assesses patient physical, psychological, social, spiritual, educational, developmental, cultural and discharge planning needs. Reviews patient history and physical with patient/family and assures completion within appropriate timeframe. Reviews available information obtained by other health care team members. Reviews diagnostics and laboratory data and reports abnormal results to the physician(s) and other appropriate caregivers. Completes assessment and reassessments according to patient need and as outlined in policy.
2. Formulates a plan of care, including the discharge plan, utilizing assessment data and patient, family and health team input. Initiates a plan of care based on patient-specific needs, assessment data and the medical plan of care. Goals for patient are realistic, measurable and developed in conjunction with the patient/family. Considers the physical, cultural, psychosocial, spiritual, age specific and educational needs of the patient in the plan of are. Plans care in collaboration with members of the multidisciplinary team. Reviews and revises the plan of care to reflect changing patient needs based on evaluation of the patient’s status.
3. Implements the plan of care through direct patient care, coordination, delegation and supervision of the activities of the health care team. Provides care based on physician orders and the nursing plan of care, in compliance with policies and procedures, standards of care, and regulatory agency requirements. Delegates appropriately, and provides nursing supervision in the provision of care to patients by other licensed nurses and other personnel. Promotes continuity of care by accurately and completely communicating to other caregivers the status of patients for whom care is provided.
4. Evaluates the patient's and family's response to care and teaching, and revises the plan of care as needed. Evaluates patient progress towards goals and expected outcomes in collaboration with other health care team members. Evaluates patient's response and the effectiveness of patient teaching.
5. Documents assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation in the patient record. Documentation is legible, timely and in accordance with policy. Documentation reflects objective/subjective data, nursing interventions and patient’s response to treatment. Notes physician orders accurately and in a timely manner.
6. Provides care based on the best evidence available and may participate in research activities within clinical practice. Participates in unit or facility shared leadership. Interacts and participates in the education, role development, and orientation of facility personnel, patients, students, families and visitors. Promotes/supports growth of others through precepting and mentoring when appropriate.
7. Contributes to society through activities that lead to excellent patient outcomes through timely, effective, efficient, equitable, and safe care. Actively participates in the improvement of national nursing quality indicators and outcomes. Such activities may include participating in professional organizations.
8. In some roles, this position may supervise staff and work flow of the department.
9. Interacts with all levels of staff in a variety of departments, physicians, patients, families and external contacts, such as employees of other health care institutions, community providers and agencies, concerning the health care of the patient. Interacts with other health care providers in numerous settings in order to report and ask for or clarify information. Also works with clergy to provide spiritual support. Synthesizes and prioritizes data from multiple sources to provide support for the human response of the patient and family to changes in health status.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Must possess a current, valid RN license in state of practice, temporary/interim RN license in state of practice, or compact RN licensure for current state of practice. BLS certification is required. Additional certification or continuing education may be required based on area of practice.
Relates throughout the interview process the experience, training and education needed to perform the job. Experience in the clinical area for which he or she is applying is desired. Must maintain clinical performance competencies appropriate to the area in which they work as demonstrated through annual validations. Banner Registry and Travel acute care positions require a minimum of one year experience in an acute care hospital setting. Experience must include working in an acute care setting within the past 12 months as a Registered Nurse in the specialty area. Banner Registry and Travel physician practice positions require a minimum of one year experience as a Registered Nurse in a physician practice or an acute care setting.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree preferred. Professional certification preferred.
Additional related education and/or experience preferred.

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