The Registered Nurse (RN) provides comprehensive, patient‑centered care to individuals with acute ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes, as well as high‑acuity stepdown patients requiring close monitoring. This role combines neuro-specific care with progressive care (PCU/stepdown) responsibilities, ensuring safe management of patients transitioning from ICU or requiring higher‑level monitoring than med‑surg. Key Responsibilities 1.
Neurological / Stroke Care 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 Coordinate care across the stroke continuum (acute care → rehab → discharge) 2. Stepdown / Progressive Care Management Care for high‑acuity patients transitioning from ICU or requiring close monitoring Monitor cardiac rhythms via telemetry and interpret EKG changes 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 3.
General Nursing Responsibilities Conduct comprehensive patient assessments and ongoing reassessments Administer medications, treatments, and interventions per physician orders Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the EMR Respond to medical emergencies and initiate appropriate interventions Assist with patient mobility, safety, and fall prevention 4. 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 5.
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.) 6. 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 What Makes This Role Unique Hybrid unit = stroke + stepdown acuity , so you’re balancing: Neuro-focused care (stroke protocols, rehab mindset) PCU-level care (telemetry, drips, rapid decline risk) Requires ICU-level thinking without full ICU resources , so prioritization and early escalation are critical
Day shift · 7a-7p