Intermediate Care Registered Nurse at Appalachian Regional Healthcare System – Boone, North Carolina

Registered Nurse (RN) – Intermediate/Acute Care

Location: Boone, North Carolina | Per-diem | 12-hour shifts

Why You’ll Love Working Here

As a Registered Nurse at UNC Health Appalachian, you’ll do more than provide care — you’ll be part of a mission-driven health system committed to patient safety, teamwork, and professional growth. Nestled in the scenic Appalachian Mountains, Boone offers the perfect blend of community, culture, and outdoor adventure.

• Compensation: Starts at $34.00/hour, based on experience, education, and internal equity.

• Schedule: 12-hour shifts, every 3rd weekend rotation.
• Benefits: Comprehensive medical/dental/vision, retirement with match, PTO, tuition reimbursement, paid parental leave, wellness incentives, and employee discounts.

What You’ll Do as a Registered Nurse

• Deliver high-quality, patient-centered care to critically ill or recovering patients.
• Use the nursing process (assess, plan, implement, evaluate) to guide care from admission to discharge.
• Monitor and respond quickly to changes in patient condition, mobilizing resources as needed.
• Safely administer medications, treatments, and therapies according to protocols.
• Partner with physicians, APPs, and interdisciplinary teams to achieve the best outcomes.
• Provide compassionate education and support to patients and families in critical moments.
• Document accurately and timely in the Electronic Medical Record (EMR).

Experience

• Previous experience as a registered nurse is required.
• Prior healthcare experience in an acute or clinic setting is beneficial.
• One year of experience in a similar role with a similar scope is preferred.

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited school of nursing (BSN preferred).
• Current RN license in North Carolina (or compact state).
• BLS required at hire; ACLS/PALS within 12 months.
• Strong judgment, adaptability, and teamwork skills.
• Commitment to safety, ethics, and patient dignity.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of and ability to work within the scope of nursing practice as outlined by licensure and hospital policies.
• Ability to communicate effectively and courteously with patients, families, staff, and physicians.
• Competency in delivering safe and effective patient care in line with hospital policies.
• Ability to demonstrate exceptional customer service to patients, families, staff, and physicians.
• Familiarity with data entry and the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system.

Physical & Work Environment

• Lift, position, or transfer patients >50 lbs; frequent standing, walking, or bending.
• Exposure to blood-borne pathogens, chemicals, and emergency situations.
• Rotating shifts may include nights, weekends, and holidays.

What Sets Us Apart

• Career Growth: Structured advancement pathways, tuition reimbursement, and ongoing training.
• Impactful Work: As a Registered Nurse at UNC Health Appalachian, you’ll provide compassionate, high-quality care across three community hospitals, 13 medical practices, and specialty centers like the Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center and The Rehabilitation Center.
• Community & Lifestyle: Boone is ranked among the best small towns in America by Forbes and Southern Living.
• Inclusive Culture: We embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion — and provide accommodations as needed.

Ready to build your nursing career in a place where compassion meets excellence?
Apply today to join UNC Health Appalachian and make a lasting impact on patients, families, and the community we proudly serve.

About UNC Health Appalachian
UNC Health Appalachian earned an "A" in the fall 2023 Leapfrog Patient Safety Grades! We are the leading healthcare provider in the High Country, comprising three hospitals, 13 medical practices, the Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and the Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation. We are dedicated to enhancing health and quality of life in the High Country while making life better for our patients.

About UNC Health
UNC Health is an enterprise of the University of North Carolina system, consisting of 14 hospitals, 18 campuses, and over 500 clinics. We aim to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and advance the mission of the UNC School of Medicine. Over the past three years, UNC Health has provided more than $400 million in uncompensated care. Our hospitals have received recognition for quality care, safety, and overall patient experience. Visit unchealth.org for more details.

UNC Health Appalachian embraces diversity and values a workforce that reflects a variety of backgrounds and perspectives. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. Our hiring process is inclusive, and we provide accommodations as needed. Employment is contingent upon background and drug screen completion. For accommodations or additional information, contact arhsrecruitment@unchealth.unc.edu.