Nursing Care in the Neurosciences Critical Care Unit

Abstract

The 1990s was designated the “Decade of the Brain” and was characterized by a virtual explosion in the knowledge base of the brain and neurological conditions as well as the treatment of these conditions. The 1990s provided the advancement of education for health care personnel who care for neurologically compromised patients, which allowed for the specialization in the care of these patients. However, it became evident that one of the ways to provide comprehensive care to the critically ill neurological patient is through collaborative practice and care. True collaborative practice dictates that nurse and physician work together as professional colleagues to jointly manage patients. Studies have shown that a close collegial working relationship between nurses and physicians is fundamental to excellent patient care delivery (1). Neurological conditions have serious consequences, not only for the patient but also for the family members. It is important that the family be involved in management of the patient. The family’s ability to accept the patient’s condition and adapt to it directly influences the emotional stability of the entire family, including the patient (2). Research shows that patients with strong family involvement appear to progress more rapidly and realistic outcomes are more readily accepted than in cases with little family involvement in the patient plan of care (3). The critical care environment enhances the use of the collaborative care model. In this chapter we will present the key elements of good nursing care to patients admitted to the neurosciences critical care unit (NSU) with various neurologic and systemic abnormalities.