The Neuroscience Nursing Internship/Fellowship prepares both the new graduate and experienced nurse to develop a basic foundation in the skills of neuroscience nursing.
The patient population served by neurological and neurosurgical care has experienced dysfunction of the nervous system. Neurological deficits can affect mental status, sensation and motor activity. Deficits may be the result of a trauma with the patient requiring care related to concurrent injury. The nurse must apply principles of medical-surgical nursing, neuroanatomy, neuropathophysiology and rehabilitation. This is learned through a 10-week program of classroom lectures, self-study and skills training all integrated with precepted clinical observations and experiences. Faculty, preceptors, team coordinators and managers guide the nurse to transition to her/his new role. The new graduate receives additional guidance in the general area of medical-surgical and trauma nursing skills.