Male doctor and a female nurse stand near a negatoscope and examine an X-ray

Neuroscience Nursing

Learn What a Neuroscience Nurse Does

Neuroscience nurses assist patients with brain and nervous system disorders such as problems with consciousness, communication, cognition, mobility, and sensation. The duties of a neuroscience nurse include monitoring neurological exams, administering medication, managing pain, and consulting physicians on patient progress. Neuroscience nurses must be sensitive and calm, since they treat patients who may be confused or not fully in control of their actions.

Preparation Path

Attain a BSN

Pass the NCLEX and become an RN

Gain two years of experience in neuroscience nursing

Pass the Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse exam and become a CNRN

Typical Tasks

  • Managing pain
  • Monitoring patients’ cognitive responses
  • Overseeing neurological exams
  • Caring for wounds
  • Educating patients and their families about neurosurgical procedures
  • Administering post-operative care
  • Teaching patients how to care for themselves after discharge

Employment Settings

  • Hospitals
  • Health care clinics
  • Ambulatory care facilities
  • Brain injury units
  • Intensive rehabilitation units
  • Long-term care facilities
  • Hospitals — often the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

Annual Salary Range

$71,000 –$125,714

Certification

RN, plus Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse (CNRN) certification

Education Requirements

BSN

Interested in taking the first step toward a career in neuroscience nursing?