The PCU nurse is sometimes also called a step-down nurse and the PCU is also known as cardiac stepdown, medical stepdown, neuro stepdown, surgical stepdown and ER holding. PCU nursing jobs traditionally operate between the levels of general and ICU care, and more recently, in the field of critical care, as well. Job Requirements : Active BLS and ACLS from the American Heart Association Active professional license within the state of practice NIHSS stroke scale certification and other specialty-related certifications are preferred and may be required for specific positions Experience as a Telemetry RN in a hospital setting Minimum of 2 years of experience as an RN