RN Staff

Key Responsibilities

• Perform detailed neurological assessments (e.g., NIH Stroke Scale) and monitor changes in status
• Implement stroke protocols, including post-tPA monitoring and time-sensitive interventions
• Identify early signs of stroke progression, complications, or recurrence
• Care for high-acuity patients transitioning from ICU or requiring close monitoring
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the EMR
• Respond to medical emergencies and initiate appropriate interventions
• Auxiliary patient mobility, safety, and fall prevention

Stepdown / Progressive Care Management

• Maintain IV drips (e.g., insulin, heparin, vasoactive meds per policy)
• Titrate IV drips (e.g., insulin, heparin, vasoactive meds per policy)
• Perform frequent reassessments and recognize early deterioration
• Manage oxygen therapy, respiratory support (e.g., BiPAP), and complex comorbidities

General Nursing Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive patient assessments and ongoing reassessments
• Administer medications, treatments, and interventions per physician orders
• Assist with patient mobility, safety, and fall prevention

Care Coordination & Team Collaboration

• Collaborate with physicians, neurologists, therapists, and interdisciplinary team
• Participate in care planning, rounding, and discharge coordination
• Ensure smooth transitions between ICU, stroke unit, and lower levels of care

Patient & Family Education

• Educate patients and families on stroke recovery, risk factor modification, and prevention
• Provide discharge teaching, including medications and follow-up care
• Reinforce recognition of stroke warning signs (FAST, etc.)

Equipment & Clinical Skills

• Manage IV pumps, feeding tubes, and other advanced equipment
• Perform neuro checks and vital sign trending
• Interpret clinical data and adjust care plans accordingly

Patient Population

May Include:

• Acute CVA/TIA patients (ischemic & hemorrhagic)
• Post-tPA or thrombectomy patients
• Neuro stepdown (post-procedure, seizures, neuro changes)
• Stepdown overflow: respiratory failure, sepsis, DKA, cardiac arrhythmias, renal failure

Preferred Skills

• Strong critical thinking and rapid clinical judgment
• Ability to manage multiple high-acuity patients simultaneously
• Knowledge of neuro assessments and hemodynamics
• Effective communication and teamwork

Qualifications

• Current RN license in good standing
• ACLS is required but can be obtained through our Training and Development Center
• NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) certification
• Experience in telemetry, med’surg, or critical care environments preferred but not required

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefit package
• Structured 14-week orientation program for new graduates and those new to critical care practice
• Nurse Residency Program to help guide new nurses through the transition into practice, ensuring you feel confident and supported during your first year as an RN
• Tuition reimbursement
• Supportive work environment focused on complex, patient-centered care
• Cross train to ICU