I was offered and accepted a position on the neuroscience floor. It is at a teaching hospital and is a certified stroke center. I have never set foot through the door, so I don't know what to expect. It's not anything that I planned on or imagined myself doing, but I'm sure I will learn a lot, and I'm just thankful to have a position lined up. During the interview, it was mentioned that there were several nurses who had been there for a long time - so I look forward to drawing from their knowledge and experience. From the literature I was given, their patient population includes: traumatic brain injuries, epidural & subdural hematomas, seizure disorders, cervical & lumbar strains, laminectomies, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's, strokes, aneurysms, and subarachnoid hemorrhages.
I plan on reviewing all the above, cranial nerves, communication issues, and of course neuro assessment. Is there anything else you all recommend? Any insight on what I can expect, or tips to handle it? How well will this prepare me for other units/floors if I decide this isn't for me, long-term? What do you love about it, what do you hate about it?
Thanks!