How to become an ER nurse

Is becoming an ER nurse right for me?

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Overview
What do ER nurses do?

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How to become an ER Nurse

Becoming an emergency room nurse requires specific education, training, and experience. Here are the detailed steps to become an ER nurse:

  • Meet the Education Requirements: To become an ER nurse, you need to have at least an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited nursing program. The ADN program takes around two years to complete, while the BSN program takes around four years to complete. A BSN degree is preferred, as it provides more in-depth coursework and hands-on experience.
  • Obtain a Nursing License: After completing your nursing degree, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to obtain a nursing license. The NCLEX-RN is a standardized exam that tests your knowledge and skills in nursing practice. Passing this exam is a requirement to practice as a registered nurse (RN) in the United States.
  • Gain Nursing Experience: ER nurses need prior experience in nursing before they can work in an emergency room. Many hospitals prefer nurses who have worked in other departments, such as intensive care units (ICU), medical-surgical units, or pediatrics, to gain experience in critical care and develop essential skills.
  • Earn Advanced Certifications: ER nurses can earn advanced certifications to demonstrate their specialized skills and knowledge in emergency nursing. For example, the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing offers the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) credential, which validates a nurse's ability to provide emergency care to patients.
  • Apply for ER Nurse Positions: After gaining the necessary education, licensure, and experience, you can apply for ER nurse positions at hospitals, urgent care centers, and other healthcare facilities. Look for job openings that match your qualifications and career goals.
  • Complete Orientation and Training: Once you are hired, you will undergo orientation and training to familiarize yourself with the hospital's policies and procedures, emergency protocols, and medical equipment. ER nurses must also maintain their knowledge and skills by participating in continuing education and training programs.

Certifications
There are several certifications available for emergency room nurses. Here are some of the most common ones:

  • Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN): The CEN certification is offered by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN). This certification recognizes nurses who demonstrate expertise in emergency nursing. To be eligible, nurses must have at least two years of experience working in emergency nursing and pass a certification exam.
  • Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC): The TNCC certification is offered by the Emergency Nurses Association (ENA). This certification focuses on trauma nursing and provides nurses with the knowledge and skills to assess and manage trauma patients.
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS): The ACLS certification is offered by the American Heart Association (AHA). This certification is focused on the management of patients experiencing cardiac emergencies, such as cardiac arrest or stroke.
  • Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS): The PALS certification is also offered by the AHA and focuses on the management of pediatric emergencies.
  • Emergency Nurse Pediatric Course (ENPC): The ENPC certification is offered by the ENA and provides nurses with the knowledge and skills to manage pediatric patients in emergency situations.

Associations
There are several professional associations for ER nurses, including:

  • Emergency Nurses Association (ENA): ENA is a professional association dedicated to promoting excellence in emergency nursing practice. It provides networking opportunities, education, and resources for emergency nurses.
  • American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN): AACN is a professional organization focused on critical care nursing, including emergency and trauma care. The association offers education and resources to help nurses advance their practice.
  • Society of Trauma Nurses (STN): STN is a professional organization that promotes trauma nursing as a specialty. It provides resources and education to help nurses provide optimal care to trauma patients.
  • National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT): NAEMT is a professional association for emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics. While not specific to nursing, NAEMT provides valuable resources and education for nurses working in emergency and trauma care.
  • American Nurses Association (ANA): ANA is a professional organization representing the interests of nurses across all specialties, including emergency nursing. ANA provides advocacy, resources, and education to help nurses advance their practice and improve patient care.