Does Level of Trauma Center matter?

[NurseMedic28]

As a GN with aspirations of being a kickass ER Nurse, and hopes of one day being a Trauma nurse, it was really important to me to start out working in, or have my internship in a Level 1 Trauma Center. I thought that this would give me the exposure to the types and volumes of patients necessary both to gain experience and be marketable for future employers.

But mentors and other experienced ED RNs have been telling me that it really doesn't matter what level or size ED you start out in, and I can move up to Level 1 after, and getting the first year of experience somewhere, in any ER is the most important.

Should I expand my job search and quit being hung up on levels and trauma centers? Or does it matter to future employers?

[NurseMedic28]

I can tell you that a lot of the staff from the level 1 could not make it in the level none where I was the only nurse. Don't discount experience of any type.

That makes sense, thanks for the advice.

[NurseMedic28]

As a new grad, I would look for experience in a high volume ER which gives you diverse experiences with adult and pediatric patients with a structured and lengthy orientation. I would look for volume and a good orientation over trauma designation.

That's good advice. How does one reference which hospitals are highest volume? Can I find these stats somewhere?

[Momma1RN, MSN, RN, APRN]

Also, in a level 1 as a new grad, if it's a teaching hospital, the residents and intern MDs will be more involved and you may have less opportunities.