How to Become an ER Nurse

If you love a fast paced work environment, thrive on excitement and have a desire to help people a career as an ER nurse may be a good fit. Emergency room nurses deal with life threatening illness and injuries. Although the work can be stressful, it does have many rewards.

Instructions

1. Locate a hospital with a preceptor program. Working in the ER is a different environment than other areas of the hospital and takes additional skills. Even with nursing experience being assigned to a preceptor will help you make the transition to ER work. Call hospitals and speak to the nursing director to inquire about a preceptor program.

2. Get certified in advanced cardiac life support and pediatric advanced life support. These two certifications give an emergency room nurse special skills and knowledge to treat adults and children who are in respiratory or cardiac arrest. Both certifications require attending a class and passing a written and practical exam. Most hospitals offer classes.

3. Take the exam to become a Certified Emergency Room Nurse. Although it may not be a requirement to get hired in an ER, it may set you apart from other potential employees. Obtain an application for the exam from the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing.

4. Join the American Association of Critical Care Nurses. This organization can provide information on jobs and continuing education classes.

5. Learn to work effectively as part of a team. ER nurses work very closely with other members of the health care team such as doctors, respiratory therapists, lab tech and social workers. Because situations are stressful and fast paced emotions can run high, ER nurses need to be calm, efficient and work as part of a team.

6. Find ways to reduce stress. ER nurses deal with life and death situations daily. Burnout is high. Find ways to cope with the stress such as exercise, hobbies and spending time with friends.