Neurosurgery Inpatient Nights - Advanced Practice Nurses

Job Description

Clinical Neuroscience Institute – MVH

FT/ Nights/ 80 Hours per pay

Accepting Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants

Summary

The Advanced Practice Provider in Neurosurgery provides advanced, evidence-based care for critically ill patients with complex neurological and neurosurgical conditions. In collaboration with attending physicians, residents, and the inter-professional care team, the APP delivers comprehensive care that includes patient assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and continuous management in the hospital setting. The APP plays a vital role in patient stabilization, critical decision-making, and family support during high-acuity situations.

Nature and Scope

·Applies advanced knowledge of acute care medicine and neuroscience to critically ill patients.

·Skilled in evaluating unstable conditions, interpreting diagnostic data, and initiating life-sustaining interventions.

·Maintains quality assurance standards while responding effectively in emergent and rapidly changing clinical situations.

·Demonstrates strong communication skills with patients, families, and the healthcare team, particularly in high-stress environments.

Position Summary

The APP functions as a clinician, educator, consultant, and collaborator in the delivery of neurosurgical care. The role requires in-depth knowledge of neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, critical care management, and evidence-based guidelines. The APP is expected to:

• Manage patients with acute stroke, intracerebral hemorrhage, subarachnoid hemorrhage, traumatic brain injury, post-operative neurosurgical conditions, and other neurological emergencies.
• Partner with physicians to develop and implement individualized treatment plans.
• Provide ongoing assessment and timely interventions in the critical care environment.
• Support patients and families through education, communication, and advocacy.

Key Responsibilities

·Perform comprehensive histories and physical exams on critically ill patients.

·Order, interpret, and act on diagnostic tests including CT, MRI, EEG, and laboratory studies.

·Develop, implement, and evaluate treatment plans in collaboration with the supervising physician(s).

·Manage and interpret intracranial pressure devices.

·Prescribe medications, therapies, and interventions in accordance with licensure and collaborative agreement.

·Respond to emergencies and acute neurological deteriorations.

·Provide education and guidance to patients, families, and inter-professional staff.

·Document all care provided in the electronic medical record.

·Uphold HIPAA standards and ethical guidelines in all patient interactions.

Experience

• Two (2) to three (3) years of acute/critical care nursing experience preferred

• Prior critical care, neurocritical care, or neurosurgical ICU experience preferred

Knowledge / Skills

·Advanced understanding of neurological and neurosurgical critical care

·Proficiency in advanced diagnostic interpretation and invasive monitoring

·Excellent clinical judgment and ability to manage high-acuity patients

·Strong organizational, multitasking, and critical thinking skills

·Effective communication and teamwork skills in high-pressure environments

·Computer literacy including Excel, Word, Outlook; EMR experience required

Population Served

Defined by the APP’s scope of licensure and certification. The APP provides neurosurgical care services to patients with acute and life-threatening neurological or neurosurgical conditions, ensuring safe, effective, and compassionate care.

Qualifications

Education

• Completion of an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program required or Completion of an Physician Assistant Program Required

Licensure / Certification / Registration

·Current licensure as a ACNP or PA in the State of Ohio

·Current licensure as a Physician

·Valid license to practice as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner in the State of Ohio

·Current BLS and ACLS certification required

·National certification as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ANCC or equivalent) or Physician Assistant (NCCPA)

·Certificate to Prescribe must be current and maintained at all times

·PHP Standard Care Arrangement (SCA) required prior to engaging in practice