How can I become a better ED nurse?

Specialties Emergency

Published

I have worked in two ED's since I graduated in early 2018. The first ED was a great educational experience with strokes and cardiac arrests pretty regularly. I left that job because I was switched to nights and I could not function. Now I am at another ED that is almost like a glorified urgent care. Yes, we very occasionally get a stroke or cardiac arrest, but we honestly get a lot of n/v, urinary issues, sore throats, etc... I feel like I am not progressing in my nursing knowledge. If I ended up traveling, I feel like I would find myself in a lot of unfamiliar territory. 

Returning to my first ED job is not something that I can do. I kinda burned a bridge when I left because I have applied multiple times and they never call. There are two level 1 trauma centers within 1/2 hour drive from me. One of them is a no-go. A lot of friends have said they are doing major unsafe ratios and other issues. The second never seems to have any dayshift jobs. 

I could just start local travel and learn on the job. But I don't know if that is wise either. I want to learn more though. Any thoughts and recommendations?

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Specializes in Emergency/med surg.

toughie - how long have you been a nurse? travel nursing could totally be an option (I have never done it personally ) but I have heard wonderful things- you work the shift you want to - and the compensation is great - if you are bored where you are - you need to move on!

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Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

Study for your CEN - that will give you exposure to a wide base of knowledge. Other options are TCRN or CPEN. There are lots of great study materials out there that will add to your learning. Good luck!

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Specializes in ER, Pre-Op, PACU.

It sounds like you have been a nurse since 2018 which is enough experience to travel. I do think acuity does help with competence levels. It really depend if you feel if you are ready for it. If not, then try to gain experience at one of the closer hospitals. Some thing to mention about traveling is you are not guaranteed day shift. I know many travelers are pulled all over the place in terms of shifts and generally they fill the less ideal shifts or where there are the biggest needs.

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