Nursing Student Needs Assistance

Published

I am currently doing a research paper on emergency nursing. I have gathered quite a bit of information on various aspects of the specialty, however I am struggling with obtaining information on the educational requirements needed to become an ER nurse. I know one has to become an RN first (that's a given). Not sure if ASN or BSN matters. I am some what aware that one must have certain certifications but not sure exactly what they are. If someone can assist me with the actual education requirements needed prior to and after obtaining a job as an ER nurse or provide me with either a legitimate website or journal article that specifies the information that would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance to anyone who replies.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ER/ICU/STICU.

You will need ACLS/BLS/PALS some sort of telemetry course and a critical care course. ASN or BSN probably depends on the facility. You can also check out the Emergeny Nurses Association http://www.ena.org

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Thank You very much.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

As ED nurses, we are encouraged to obtain board certification (CEN, CPEN): http://www.ena.org/bcen/Pages/default.aspx

In my ED, we're also required to maintain BLS and ACLS. PALS is encouraged (can't remember if it's required, to be honest ... I always maintain all of them, so I'm not sure). Also, TNCC and ENPC are encouraged.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

You asked for the educational requirements to BECOME an ED nurse. You don't NEED anything besides an RN license to get the job.

You would already have BLS since that is requred during nursing school, but everything else is taught AFTER the job is acquired.

Different facilities have different requirements for obtaining certifications, but most will require the minimum of a tele course right after being hired, and ACLS within the first 6 months to one year of being hired.

TNCC, ENPC, and CEN are highly encouraged where I work, but they aren't required.

Some facilities also have you take critical care and basic neuroscience courses, but not all do.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Med-Surg, Emergency, CEN.

Where i live it's required to have 1 year experience and BLS in med-surg. They train you for acls and pals when they hire you.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ER, IICU, PCU, PACU, EMS.

My ED requires PALS, ACLS and TNCC within 6 months after hire. A nurse has a better chance of being hired if they have at least their ACLS. CEN and CPEN certifications are strongly encouraged. My ED hires nurses with experience and some new grads.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Thank You all for your responses.The information provided was helpful. My research paper is underway.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion