RN Neuroscience Stepdown

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.

• 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.

• ACLS certification from the American Heart Association.

• 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.

• 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.