Job Details
Neuro ICU Advanced Practice Provider (APP)
Good Samaritan University Hospital - West Islip, NY
(Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant)
FT - varied shifts (am and pm combined shifts)
Position Summary
The Neuro ICU Advanced Practice Provider (APP) delivers comprehensive, high-acuity care to patients with complex neurological and neurosurgical conditions at Good Samaritan University Hospital, an academic tertiary-care center within Catholic Health. The APP works collaboratively with intensivists, neurosurgeons, neurologists, and critical care RNs to manage critically ill patients, perform advanced procedures, and optimize outcomes in a fast-paced Neuro ICU.
Key Responsibilities
Clinical Care & Patient Management
- Perform comprehensive neurologic and critical care assessments on Neuro ICU patients, including acute stroke, traumatic brain injury, subarachnoid hemorrhage, status epilepticus, brain tumors, spinal cord injury, and complex post-operative neurosurgical patients.
- Formulate and implement evidence-based medical management plans in collaboration with attending physicians.
- Interpret diagnostic studies including CT, MRI, EEG, continuous neuromonitoring, and lab results.
- Manage advanced neuromonitoring devices such as:
- Intracranial pressure (ICP) monitors
- External ventricular drains (EVDs)
- Licox and cerebral perfusion monitoring systems
- Initiate and titrate critical care infusions (vasoactive, sedation, hyperosmolar therapies, anticonvulsants).
- Respond to emergencies including code strokes, rapid response activations, seizures, airway compromise, and acute neurologic deterioration.
Procedures (Depending on training & privileges)
- Central venous catheter placement
- Arterial line insertion
- Lumbar puncture
- Ventilator management and airway stabilization
- Bedside ultrasound for procedural guidance
- Removal of EVDs or drains per neurosurgical protocols (if credentialed)
Communication & Collaboration
- Participate in daily multidisciplinary rounds with neurosurgery, neurology, neurointensivists, nursing, respiratory therapy, rehab services, pharmacy, and case management.
- Communicate clinical plans clearly to patients and families; provide education and support regarding neurological diagnoses.
- Serve as a clinical resource to nursing staff and contribute to ongoing improvement of Neuro ICU protocols.
Quality, Safety & Documentation
- Maintain accurate, timely documentation in the electronic medical record.
- Follow all hospital guidelines for patient safety, infection prevention, and critical care standards.
- Participate in Neuro ICU quality initiatives including stroke metrics, morbidity/mortality reviews, CLABSI and CAUTI reduction, and evidence-based neurocritical care pathways.
Professional Development
- Participate in continuing education specific to neurocritical care.
- Maintain required certifications and hospital competencies.
- Engage in research, performance improvement projects, or academic collaboration as appropriate.
Qualifications
Required
- Current NYS license as Nurse Practitioner (FNP/AGACNP preferred) or Physician Assistant
- Master's or Doctorate degree from an accredited NP or PA program
- National board certification (AANP/ANCC for NP; NCCPA for PA)
- BLS and ACLS certification
- At least 1-2 years of critical care, neurology, neurosurgery, or ICU-related experience (new graduates with strong ICU RN background may be considered)
Preferred
- ACNP or AGACNP certification for NPs
- Neuro ICU or neurosurgical APP experience
- Experience with EVD/ICP monitoring and neurocritical care protocols
- CCRN, CNRN, or NCCPA specialty certifications
- NIH Stroke Scale certification
Core Competencies
- Advanced neurological assessment skills
- Strong critical thinking and autonomous decision-making
- Ability to manage multiple high-acuity patients in a dynamic ICU setting
- Excellent communication and interdisciplinary collaboration
- Compassionate, patient-centered care philosophy
- Willingness to work in a 24/7 service with rotating shifts
Work Environment
- High-acuity Neuro ICU with 24/7 coverage
- Shifts may include days, nights, weekends, and holidays
- Exposure to emergency situations requiring rapid intervention
- Fast-paced, team-based clinical setting with opportunities for growth and specialization