How do I get a job in ED?

classicdame, MSN, EdD · Feb 1, 2010

Make an appointment to talk to the ED supervisor. Find out what they are looking for. Periodically check in with him/her to see if you are still in consideration. Request transfer when the supervisor indicates it is appropriate.

Da_Milk_of_Amnesia, MSN · Feb 1, 2010

idk where you live but I know that NY has a state reg that says you cant go to work in an ED until you have 1 year of experience. As many people know already I've dont ems for almost 10 years and even with that they said nope, can't do it. So you just might wanna see to make sure there isn't any 'red tape' so to speak. Good job on doing ACLS and PALS that should def make you more marketable. Idk if there is much else you can do besides that not unless someone else knows something I don't. But good luck to you. I too want to go down to the ED when im finally done with my first year. Right now I'm in ICU/CCU and i love it. Good luck !

snoopy29 · Feb 1, 2010

For when interviewing for the department it's much more about potential and personality than experience. I can interview someone with 10years experience and lots of extended skills and just know that they would not survive in the department.

In your favour you have previous ED experience so it's not a dream you are chasing you know the pace and the demands and still want to go back which would win you points with me.

We tend to only recruit with one years post qualifying experience elsewhere but would consider with pre-qualifying experience. So much comes down to a well written application and in interview if you can demonstrate a realistic idea of working in the field mixed in with loads of enthusiasm you should do just fine.

Your ACLS and PALS will be a bonus but don't forget you will have acquired lots of transferrable skills from your med/surg experience.

Good luck - we don't acheive anything without dreams :)

fungez · Feb 1, 2010

I got a job in the ER by volunteering to float (to take care of overflow med/surge patients). While there, I did my best to help out staff by starting IVs, answering call lights, etc. After a couple of shifts I was "in" with staff and the supervisor. Good luck. I thought I'd like ER more than I actually did - gave it a year, now back to m/s.

ShayRN · Feb 1, 2010

Our ED is inner city and like a war zone at times. Last winter they were paying 5.00 extra an hour to anyone willing to go work there. I passed, lol.

FrogKissingNurse · Feb 1, 2010

I want to work ED too. I've been told its a good idea to get on an ICU or tele floor first. That way you get familiar with the IV solutions/meds that are similar to the ones frequently seen in ED. Good luck with ACLS and PALS that is a great first step.

Shanimal · Feb 2, 2010

I've been working Med/Surg for about 9 months. I can handle the work load just fine, but I've come to the conclusion that I don't want to spend the rest of my life on a Med/Surg floor. I worked as a Tech in ED before starting nursing school & I loved the atmosphere and pace.
What can I do to increase my chances of landing a job in the ED? I'm taking ACLS next month and hopefully PALS after that. Unfortunately, I know when my resume is examined, "9 months experience" will be glaring of the paper for any and all to see!

I think your previous experience as an ED Tech and getting the ACLS/PALS certs will be really helpful. But, as you've acknowledged, leaving your current job after only 9 months may dissuade potential employers from wanting to hire you. Perhaps you can spend some time shadowing an ED nurse. I think being able to discuss a shadowing experience in your cover letter, and how it led you to the informed decision that ED nursing is the right specialty for you, may help convince employers that you're not a "flight risk." And, of course, be sure to highlight skills and experiences you've learned while in med/surg that are applicable to working in the ED on your resume. Good luck!

Virgo_RN, BSN, RN · Feb 2, 2010

The first step in getting any job is to apply for it.