HELP!! neuro/ trauma unit? What is it

Editorial Team / Admin · Mar 11, 2015

There are a few good posts around about interview questions; this is one part of a series and has links to the previous articles in the series: https://allnurses.com/nursing-interview-help/more-common-nursing-797911.html

As far as the types of patients, that would probably be best answered at the interview- remember, not only are they interviewing you to see if you're a fit, but you are also interviewing them to see if they're a fit for you.

At my facility, there is a specialty ICU for neuro and trauma patients. These are patients who have had CVAs, traumatic injuries, brain surgery, etc. There are other floors who take neuro patients- those who are not in need of ICU, back surgeries, etc. Our non-ICU trauma floors take patients who do not need ICU. These patients are primarily orthopedic injuries. But again, this is my facility and the facility you are interviewing at may have a completely different setup.

BlueDawnRN, BSN · Mar 12, 2015

If you're a new grad or if you've never worked in this area before, they're not going to expect you to know medical-related information about the unit. You'll learn that during orientation. You should be prepared to explain why working on this type of unit interests you, why you want to learn about neuro/trauma. They want to make sure you're a willing learner and a good fit for the unit.

HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD · Mar 13, 2015

I actually began my nursing career in a Neuro/Trauma ICU!!! I loved it. Patient population was mostly male age 18-35.... dealing with the consequences of their "Hey y'all, watch this!" behavioral choices. Lots of 'recreational' accidents (diving, motorcycle, hang-gliding, skiing, etc), MVAs, assault victims, . . . IICP monitoring was common, many fresh spinal cord injuries and some really devastating ortho including traumatic amputations, avulsions,

Very challenging patient population, but a really great learning environment. The quality of care in the immediate & early days S/P trauma will make all the difference in the degree of recovery and rehab that can eventually be accomplished. It's not an easy area, but there's never any doubt about the importance of your contribution.

icecream4321 · Mar 18, 2015

Thank you everyone :) interview tomorrow