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I am interested in starting ER nursing directly after finishing nursing school. I know a lot of people think that someone going into ER nursing should have some experience. However, I am a quick learner and am confident that I can do it without having to work in something like med-surg for a year. So my question is what can I do to make myself more employable for an ER nursing position prior to graduating?

Thanks for the help,

Kevin

I think that all ER's are more willing to hire new grads now secondary to the nursing shortage. In my ER we do hire new grads...some work out...some don't. I find that the people that have some medical experience such as a being a PCT work out better. I think that you need to convey that you are a quick learner and that you have good critical thinking and prioritization skills. Those things are definitely key to surviving in the ER. Good Luck.

Specializes in pre hospital, ED, Cath Lab, Case Manager.

Have found that people with pre-hospital experience often "get it" much quicker. Even if you just learn things like 'mechanism of injury', hazardous material management/treatment, basic bandaging and splinting which was never taught in my nursing school. Plus you learn to respect what happens before you get the patient.

Cardiac rhythms are another plus. It's hard to learn everything else while you're learning your rhythms.

Working as a PCT helped me, but I think I probably learned more from the EMT school and the Medics I worked with as well. (I was a glutton for punishment - EMT and Nursing school at the same time, volunteer ambulance and part time PCT in the ER all at the same time.)

Specializes in M/S, Onc, PCU, ER, ICU, Nsg Sup., Neuro.

Hey guy, while in school find a job as a PCT or ER tech to get into the setting and start doing things, the more experience you can get the better nurse you'll be for it. Start looking at want ads in your local papers and send letters to these facilities expressing your interest. I am a preceptor and part of the leadrership of my ER and would gladly welcome the chance to precept someone such as yourself. I find it's best to "grow our own" when experienced nurses are so few. Good luck. Paul

The other things that help in my facility (in no order of importance): being eager, interested, willing to learn and be taught, being a self-starter, jump in and help when you can, don't try to tell people how to do the job they've been doing for many years, being young and cute, keep up with the paperwork, don't be rude to the patients, don't be rude to the docs, get out on time, when you're toward the end of orientation really work hard to carry your part of the load, when you're on your own carry your part of the load, don't wait to be asked to help--volunteer it, but don't jump in and take over, be a team player, don't complain that you're soooo busy when you aren't carrying a full load of patients. And always if you don't know something, look it up and if that doesn't work ask. If in doubt, ask.

Good luck

A lot of good advice is being offered here. Make sure that you show a willingness and an eagerness to learn, but don't get in the way. Don't get defensive when people offer advice or tell you what to do and how to do it. Respect the EMS people...the paramedics, EMTs, and firefighters are a wealth of information and experience. Learn the doctors' habits...learn which doctors will let you do what and wheich doctors expect you to take initiative to start things on your own. Learn ACLS...ACLS is your friend. Find a way to develop good IV skills. Good luck!

I don't have any advice as I am still a student , but I wanted to say HI! And WELCOME!!!!!!!

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