Job overview
A Band 5 Staff Nurse in Neurosurgery provides high‑quality, evidence‑based nursing care to patients with a wide range of neurological and neurosurgical conditions. This role involves caring for patients pre‑ and post‑operatively, supporting individuals with acute brain or spinal injuries, and working within a multidisciplinary team to ensure the best possible clinical outcomes.
Neurosurgery is a fast‑paced, highly specialised environment where nurses develop advanced assessment skills, critical thinking, and the ability to manage complex care needs.
Main duties of the job
Deliver evidence‑based, holistic care to neurosurgical patients, including pre‑ and post‑operative management.
Perform accurate neurological observations (e.g., GCS, pupil checks, limb strength, vital signs) and recognise early signs of deterioration.
Safely administer medications, including controlled drugs and IV therapies, in line with Trust policies.
Manage surgical wounds, drains (e.g., wound drains, lumbar drains), and support care of patients with external devices according to competency.
Contribute to effective pain management, seizure care, and monitoring for complications such as raised ICP, CSF leaks, infection, or haemorrhage.
Maintain clear, timely, and accurate nursing documentation.
Support safe discharge planning, patient education, and continuity of care.
Working for our organisation
Our Neurosurgery Ward at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals is a highly skilled, close‑knit team who care for patients with a wide range of cranial and spinal conditions. We are proud to be one of the region’s specialist centres, supporting emergency and elective neurosurgical care for patients across Lancashire and South Cumbria.
Our ward has a strong sense of teamwork. Senior nurses are visible, approachable, and always on hand to guide you. You’ll work alongside experienced colleagues, specialist nurses, and a collaborative multidisciplinary team who value shared learning and open communication.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
This is an excellent role for nurses who are passionate about developing specialist skills in a fast‑paced, highly skilled environment where no two days are the same.
As a Band 5 Staff Nurse in Neurosurgery, you will
Deliver high-quality care to cranial and spinal patients
Perform neurological assessments and recognise early signs of deterioration
Support patients pre‑ and post‑operatively
Work closely with the MDT to coordinate safe, effective care
Build specialist knowledge in complex neurological conditions
Contribute to a culture of safety, compassion, and continuous improvement
Person specification
Qualifications
Essential criteria
1. •Appropriate NMC Registration
2. •RN1, RN2 General Nursing Posts
3. •RN8 or RNC Children’s Nursing Posts
4. •Diploma in Nursing
5. •NMC recognised Mentorship qualification or willingness to work towards following 18 months commencement in post
6. •Evidence of continuing education or development for more experienced Band 5 nurses
Desirable criteria
7. •Degree
Knowledge
Essential criteria
8. Recent & relevant health care experience in an acute hospital setting (at least 150hrs in last 3 months)
9. Willing to expand clinical role eg IV additives, venepuncture and cannulation
10. Awareness of changes within Nursing practice
11. Knowledge of Clinical Governance and the relevance to practice
12. Knowledge of relevant policies and procedures
13. Demonstrates competency during internship
Desirable criteria
14. Evidence of clinical competence in area of speciality eg surgery
15. Knowledge of ethical issues
16. Knowledge of Leadership and Management
17. Research and Development