From Outpatient to ED... career change

[DentoniRN]

Hello,

I am an RN with 3 1/2 years experience working in case management in an outpatient setting. When I graduated school I was unable to get a job for 9 months despite applying everywhere. I had experience working as a CNA in an HIV-specific nursing home, so I was fortunate enough to get work as an HIV case manager. This wasn't the path I had planned but it's been really great in a lot of ways, not so much in others. I miss direct patient care, I effectively have a 9-5 desk job, which sounds lovely on paper but is what I thought I'd avoid becoming an RN.

The problem I have is that I am ready to move on, and my favorite experience in school was in the ED. I loved the fast paced pt care, and the whole emergency room setting. Alas, my only licensed experience is in out patient care.

Would those of you who hire RN's in the ED consider someone without ED experience (but with a practicum in the ED 4 years ago), if they were motivated to learn? Also, would pursuing CEN and TNCC certification help that candidate in getting a position in the ED? Are there other courses, certifications, or volunteer experiences that may help?

It may sound silly to want to give up a job many people would consider a plush set up, but I can't tell you how strongly I miss actually giving meds, starting IV's, full assessments, and just helping people that are in crisis.

Would love any thoughts or advice you may have. Thank you,

Nurse D

[futurecnm]

I worked ER for 3 years and would never go back. Some people love it, but it's definitely not for everyone. Be sure before you leave your current job.

[WoosahRN, MSN, RN]

Go for it! You have your whole career. That's the beauty of nursing (and the various personalities that go into it...we can all find a niche). Don't get stuck in one area especially if your heart is in another (and especially if what you're doing now is exactly what you didn't want to do in school). If you don't love it, you can move on, but at least you'll have bedside experience and clinical skills.