Getting assigned to the ED

Specialties Emergency

Published

I'm in a position to start a RN/BSN program next month. I've got all the prereqs from a previous B.S. degree and have spent most of my working years as a police officer, and I'm still in law enforcement. I've also worked off and on, in a part-time basis, as a paramedic.

That said, I've been exposed to nurses in a wide variety of work setting particularly back in medic school. I'm interested in being an emergency nurse, but I can't envision myself working in another area. Would you think based on the above work history that I would be hired as a nurse in the emergency department? I realize it's putting the cart before the horse, but I'd hate to finish and be pushed into a rehab position or something (no offense to anyone) just because I'm the new guy.

I've been a supervisor (have hired and fired) and know what I'd do in the above situation, but I don't know if hospital supervisors necessarily think the same way I do.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Oh, yeah, you sound like you'd be a great ER nurse. Former law enforcement? Former paramedic? Trust me, they'll be drooling over you.

It's ironic you should bring up rehab because I've done both and I liked rehab and I hated ER.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in NICU.

You won't be "pushed" into anything; you apply for the jobs that you'd like to get. Hopefully the economy will be better by the time you graduate and you'll have lots of choices :)

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ER, Trauma.

In places I've looked, ER nurses are in demand. I can't get the recuiters to stop calling me. Paramedic experience is a big plus since you must have ACLS, emergency assesment skills, IV and airway skills. You're way ahead of the game. Of course, your mileage may vary. Good luck.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ER, Trauma.

But, no matter how much they deserve it, shooting patients is frowned on.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
But, no matter how much they deserve it, shooting patients is frowned on.

Which is why I hated the ER!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

How would admin feel about me bringing my TASER? ;)

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Oh, bring it. Just tell them it's a new-fangled way to cardiovert the more annoying patients.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Heck, I could introduce it as a relaxation method. Sure, the five seconds are mind blowing pain, but the after effects are pretty nice. I came out feeling loose bodied and clear minded, lol.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Heck, I could introduce it as a relaxation method. Sure, the five seconds are mind blowing pain, but the after effects are pretty nice. I came out feeling loose bodied and clear minded, lol.

Okay, I just have to ask. Did you pee yourself? Obviously, you don't have to answer. Except if you don't, we know you did.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Okay, I just have to ask. Did you pee yourself? Obviously, you don't have to answer. Except if you don't, we know you did.

Ha. No, I don't know of anyone who has actually done that. It's the whole "I know somebody who knows somebody that did" thing, but I've never seen anyone evacuate.

I have however seen an officer soil himself from coughing really hard after having his pepper spray blown back in his face by a stout wind. He still hasn't lived that down. One doesn't typically see the police driving lights and sirens TO the station. :p

I just felt sorry for whoever drove his car after shift change.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Ha. No, I don't know of anyone who has actually done that. It's the whole "I know somebody who knows somebody that did" thing, but I've never seen anyone evacuate.

I have however seen an officer soil himself from coughing really hard after having his pepper spray blown back in his face by a stout wind. He still hasn't lived that down. One doesn't typically see the police driving lights and sirens TO the station. :p

I just felt sorry for whoever drove his car after shift change.

lol!!!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Add a Comment