How do I become a successful ER Nurse?

Nursing Students General Students

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Hi! I am in my second semester in my nursing program, and I am loving the nursing profession and I'm doing well in school! After reading through different forums, I really want to become fit enough to become an ER nurse, and eventually become a ED Nurse Practitioner. But I don't know what is the best route for me to take to accomplish this and become successful at it.

For instance, I don't know where to go for my senior practicum should I go for Emergency Department or ICU? I want to be competent enough in all my skills, and ER nursing seems so exciting and challenging for me. On the other hand, should I learn my basic nursing skills first that ICU presents me with?

Next, with the grace of God, I pass my NCLEX and get my RN next to my name, should I go straight to ER nursing? I've read mixed thoughts about it. Some hospitals do accept newly grads in the emergency department (because they can mold them in orientation), others want experience for in the floor.

I want to know anyone's thoughts and advice about my issue. If you're going through the same situation as I am, comment as well! Thank you! :cat:

Specializes in Trauma, Orthopedics.
@lianna88 - So what would be a good floor then for me to learn these skills if I were to go to ER?

Like others have suggested to you, medsurg is really the best foundation for ANY floor you'd want to work on. GrnTea gave some great advice that I couldnt really convey, I'd really think about what she said.

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Specializes in Trauma, Orthopedics.
But then, placentas and breastfeeding aren't for everyone, either! :)

Haha thank goodness for people like you...because one fundus massage in school was more than enough for one lifetime for me!! :sly:

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