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.