opportunities in both a level 2 trauma center and regular ER

Editorial Team / Moderator · Feb 11, 2016

Do you think I would be competitive to trauma centers having only regular ER experience?

Yes. Bottom line, you will still see traumas and learn how to handle them in any "regular" ER. Which ER provides a better orientation?

**NickiLaughs, ADN, BSN, RN** · Feb 12, 2016

I have to agree it comes down to the better orientation. Btw, the major trauma centers are frequently teaching institutes and they tend to pay less than everything else. Usually it's good to get all the trauma experience earlier on and the switch to the less acute ER and keep your cool when that rare trauma or rare major emergency (dissection) roles in. It's nice to be the cool cat in the room of chaos.

chivon101 · Feb 12, 2016

Level 1 trauma centers are usually teaching facilities, not level 2. I agree, to take the one that provides the best orientation. And if you do the regular ED, they will still hire you in a trauma center. Experience or not they usually train you to work the trauma rooms.

**NickiLaughs, ADN, BSN, RN** · Feb 12, 2016

Level 1 trauma centers are usually teaching facilities, not level 2. I agree, to take the one that provides the best orientation. And if you do the regular ED, they will still hire you in a trauma center. Experience or not they usually train you to work the trauma rooms.

I agree that level 2s aren't usually teaching institutes, but OP mentioned wanting to work trauma and didn't say level 2s were the only sight, just that There was a current job offer at a level 2. I make far more $ at a level 2 then I did at level 1 and with the concerned mention of wages I thought I'd just add that tidbit of info. I'm sure depending on the region that can range, but better to get the best experience at the lower pay first if the orientation is better and then transfer to the less exciting later on or your never really able to afford the lower wages for the better experience. :)