RN Neuroscience Stepdown

vTech Solution; Arkansas; On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

vTech Solution seeks a SMH Level 2 RN ICU Stepdown nurse to provide specialized care in a neurosurgical mixed-acuity unit, including an 8-bed high-acuity step-down area.

The role requires close hemodynamic and neurological monitoring of patients with complex needs such as brain tumors and epilepsy surgery, along with advanced neuro assessments and critical care interventions. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and adherence to high standards of care are essential.

Qualifications

• Active RN license in New York with current BLS.
• Minimum 2 years in stepdown or PCU.
• Telemetry monitoring experience and NIHSS certification.
• Neurocritical care experience in neurosurgery.

Responsibilities

• Perform neuro checks and continuous monitoring in a neurosurgical unit.
• Manage patients with EVDs, lumbar/subdural drains, and arterial lines.
• Administer and adjust neurocritical treatments per orders.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop care plans.
• Document patient status accurately in records.
• Participate in on-call, charge nurse duties, and unit needs.

Skills

Telemetry monitoring

Neurocritical care

NIHSS certification

On-call readiness

Job description

Job Summary:

The SMH Level 2 RN ICU Stepdown nurse provides specialized nursing care to patients in a neurosurgical mixed-acuity unit, including an 8-bed high-acuity step-down unit. The role involves close hemodynamic and neurological monitoring of patients with complex needs such as brain tumors, spinal malformations, and epilepsy surgery. The nurse performs advanced neuro assessments and manages critical care interventions. Strong collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and adherence to high standards of care are essential.

Responsibilities:

• Perform Q1 neurological checks and continuous monitoring of patients with neurosurgical conditions.
• Manage patients with external ventricular drains (EVDs), lumbar drains, subdural drains, and arterial lines.
• Administer specialized treatments including 3% normal saline, Cardene drips, and manage carotid endarterectomy, aneurysm coiling/clips, DBS insertion, VP shunts, and seizure management.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement patient care plans.
• Provide telemetry monitoring and respond to changes in patient condition promptly.
• Document patient status and care accurately in medical records.
• Participate in on-call, charge nurse duties, and respond to unit needs as required.

Required Skills & Certifications:

• Active Registered Nurse license in New York State.
• Minimum of two years nursing experience, including stepdown or progressive care unit (PCU) experience.
• BLS certification from the American Heart Association.
• Telemetry monitoring experience.
• High acuity stroke and neurosurgery nursing experience.
• NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) certification.

Preferred Skills & Certifications:

• ACLS certification from the American Heart Association.

Special Considerations:

• Must have experience with neurocritical care interventions such as EVDs, lumbar and subdural drains, arterial lines, and advanced neurosurgical procedures.
• On-call, weekend, holiday, and charge nurse responsibilities as per unit needs.
• Must be able to perform frequent neurological assessments and respond to rapid patient changes.

Scheduling:

• Rotating shifts including day, evening, and night shifts.
• 36 or 48 hours per week depending on assignment.
• Includes weekends, holidays, on-call, and callback duties as required.