Emergency Room Nurse Training

The emergency room is an exciting place to work

Working in an emergency room (ER) can be one of the most interesting and challenging areas of nursing. It's a fast-paced environment, and nurses must know how to assess and treat patients of all age groups, from newborns to older adults. ER nurses are subject to verbal and physical abuse from patients and family members. Excellent time management skills are important. But for the nurse who can handle the challenges, ER nursing can be one of the most rewarding areas in nursing.

Significance

For many patients, the ER is the primary care provider. Since many ERs are overcrowded and understaffed, an ER nurse needs experience in caring for true medical emergencies and routine health concerns. Although many ERs consider hiring new graduates, the best candidates are those with a few years of experience in both medical/surgical nursing, as well as ICU. Strong clinical skills in physical assessment and starting IVs and drawing blood are needed.

ACLS

ER nurses must usually be certified in ACLS (advanced cardiac life support) within a certain time frame of starting work in the ER. ACLS involves treating the patient in cardiac or respiratory arrest with IV medications and shocks. In order to complete ACLS training, a nurse must be an RN (registered nurse). Nurses must re-certify every two years with both written exams and hands-on practice, called the mega-code. ER nurses ideally have both adult and PALS (pediatric) ACLS certifications.

BLS

Before a nurse can take ACLS, they must be proficient at BLS (basic life support). BLS consists of using chest compressions and rescue breathing for a patient who is non-responsive. BLS is the first line of treatment in these situations, and is begun immediately while awaiting the crash cart and other advanced care equipment to arrive. Like ACLS, BLS must be renewed every two years using a written exam and hands-on skill assessment. BLS training covers techniques for infants, children and adults.

CEN

The ENA (Emergency Nurses Association) offers a CEN designation for ER nurses. A CEN (certified emergency nurse) credential means that this nurse shows exemplary knowledge and skills related to emergency nursing. While not required in order to work in an ER, the CEN designation may be the difference between getting a job or not in a very competitive market.

LPN to RN

An LPN (licensed practical nurse) who wishes to work in an ER should complete RN training. Most schools now offer LPN-to-RN programs which can be completed in one year. Most LPNs can work full-time while completing course requirements. Courses can be taken at a nearby community college in most areas.

References

• Emergency Nursing Association: CEN Review Web Series