Registered Nurse (RN) - Days, 6E Neurosciences Step Down at WVU Medicine

Role Overview

As a Registered Nurse (RN) in the 6E Neurosciences Step Down unit at Ruby Memorial Hospital, you will play a critical role in providing high-quality patient care to individuals with neurological conditions requiring a higher level of monitoring and intervention. This unit serves as a bridge between the intensive care unit (ICU) and general medical-surgical floors, offering specialized care to patients who are not stable enough for the general floor but do not require the intensive interventions of the ICU. Your responsibilities will encompass the full scope of nursing practice, including assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of patient care. You will work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team of physicians, therapists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

A Day in the Life

Your day as a Registered Nurse in the Neurosciences Step Down unit will be dynamic and challenging. You will start by receiving a detailed report from the outgoing nurse, reviewing patient histories, and prioritizing your tasks for the shift. Throughout the day, you will: * **Assess patients' neurological status:** Conduct frequent neurological assessments to monitor changes in level of consciousness, motor function, sensory perception, and cranial nerve function. * **Administer medications:** Administer medications as prescribed, including intravenous medications, and monitor for adverse effects. * **Manage medical devices:** Manage and troubleshoot medical devices such as ventilators, cardiac monitors, and intracranial pressure (ICP) monitors. * **Provide wound care:** Provide wound care to patients with surgical incisions, pressure ulcers, or other skin breakdown. * **Educate patients and families:** Educate patients and families about their neurological condition, treatment plan, and discharge instructions. * **Collaborate with the healthcare team:** Collaborate with physicians, therapists, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate patient care. * **Document patient care:** Accurately and thoroughly document all aspects of patient care in the electronic health record (EHR). * **Respond to emergencies:** Respond to emergencies such as seizures, strokes, and changes in respiratory status.

Why Morgantown, West Virginia?

Morgantown, West Virginia, is a vibrant college town offering a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Home to West Virginia University, Morgantown boasts a lively arts and culture scene, diverse dining options, and a wide range of outdoor recreational activities. The city is surrounded by beautiful rolling hills and forests, providing ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and fishing. Morgantown also offers a relatively low cost of living compared to other major metropolitan areas, making it an attractive place to live and work. ## Career Path WVU Medicine provides many career advancement opportunities for nurses. Starting as a Registered Nurse in the Neurosciences Step Down unit provides a solid foundation for specialization. Career advancement options include: * **Charge Nurse:** Assume leadership responsibilities and oversee the daily operations of the unit. * **Clinical Nurse Specialist:** Become an expert in a specific area of nursing practice and provide education and consultation to other nurses. * **Nurse Manager:** Manage the overall operations of the unit, including staffing, budgeting, and quality improvement. * **Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN):** Pursue advanced education to become a Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist, providing advanced medical care to patients. ## Salary & Benefits The estimated salary range for a Registered Nurse in the Morgantown, WV area is $62,000 to $95,000 per year. WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: * Health, dental, and vision insurance * Paid time off (PTO) * Retirement plan with employer matching * Life insurance * Disability coverage * Tuition reimbursement * Employee assistance program (EAP) ## WVU Medicine Culture WVU Medicine is committed to creating a supportive and collaborative work environment for its employees. The organization values teamwork, respect, and patient-centered care. WVU Medicine also invests in its employees' professional development, offering a variety of educational and training opportunities. You will be encouraged to grow and expand your nursing skillset. WVU Medicine prides itself on valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. ## How to Apply To apply for the Registered Nurse (RN) position in the 6E Neurosciences Step Down unit, please click the "Apply" button located at the top of this page. Complete the online application and upload your resume and cover letter. Ensure that your resume highlights your relevant experience and qualifications. ## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. **What is the nurse-to-patient ratio in the Neurosciences Step Down unit?** The nurse-to-patient ratio is typically 1:2 or 1:3, depending on patient acuity. 2. **What is the orientation process for new RNs?** New RNs receive a comprehensive orientation that includes classroom instruction, clinical preceptorship, and ongoing mentoring. 3. **Are there opportunities for professional development?** Yes, WVU Medicine offers a variety of professional development opportunities, including tuition reimbursement, certification programs, and continuing education courses. 4. **What is the work schedule for this position?** This position is for day shifts. 5. **Is there a sign-on bonus available?** Sign-on bonuses may be available for qualified candidates. 6. **What is the dress code for nurses?** The dress code for nurses is professional attire. 7. **What type of patients are cared for on this unit?** The unit cares for patients with neurological conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, and spinal cord injury. 8. **What is the hospital's policy on mandatory overtime?** WVU Medicine strives to minimize mandatory overtime, but it may be required in certain circumstances. 9. **What is the process for requesting time off?** Time off requests are submitted through the employee scheduling system. 10. **What is the hospital's policy on employee parking?** Employee parking is available in designated parking areas. WVU Medicine is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.