NP-NEURO CRITICAL CARE-PPN

Job Description Position Title: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) – Neurocritical Care Department: Clinical Neuroscience Institute (CNSI) Reports To: Collaborating Physician(s) and APP Manager # Summary The Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) in Neurocritical Care 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 ACNP delivers comprehensive care that includes patient assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and continuous management in the intensive care setting. The ACNP 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. · Proficient in performing advanced procedures such as arterial line placement, central venous catheterization, and interpretation of ICP monitoring devices. · 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 ACNP functions as a clinician, educator, consultant, and collaborator in the delivery of neurocritical care. The role requires in-depth knowledge of neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, critical care management, and evidence-based guidelines. The ACNP is expected to: • Manage patients with acute stroke, intracerebral hemorrhage, subarachnoid hemorrhage, traumatic brain injury, status epilepticus, 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 ventilators, hemodynamic monitoring, and interpret intracranial pressure devices. · Prescribe medications, therapies, and interventions in accordance with licensure and collaborative agreement. · Perform and assist in invasive bedside procedures (e.g., central lines, arterial lines, and intubations when appropriate). · Respond to emergencies, including codes, rapid responses, and acute neurological deteriorations. · Provide education and guidance to patients, families, and inter-professional staff. · Document all care provided in the electronic medical record. · Participate in research, quality improvement projects, and protocol development within the Neurocritical Care service. · Uphold HIPAA standards and ethical guidelines in all patient interactions. # Qualifications ## Education • Master’s or Doctoral degree in Nursing from an accredited program • Completion of an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program required ## Licensure / Certification / Registration · Current licensure as a Registered Nurse in the State of Ohio · Valid license to practice as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner in the State of Ohio · Current AHA BLS and ACLS certification required at the time of hire · National certification as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ANCC or equivalent) · Certificate to Prescribe must be current and maintained at all times · PHP Standard Care Arrangement (SCA) required prior to engaging in practice ## 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 ACNP’s scope of licensure and certification. The ACNP provides neurocritical care services to patients with acute and life-threatening neurological or neurosurgical conditions, ensuring safe, effective, and compassionate care.