Rn Student Interested In Er

[mom2three]

Hi, I am currently a student, in my second semester of 4. I am wondering at which point it would be best to get certified in PALS, ALS... etc... if I am interested in working in the ER as a new grad. Would it help to have those under my belt before I graduate? Or would it make more sense to get them after graduation and I'm working. Wondering if it would give me more leverage when looking for a job, as a new grad in the ER. Any advice would be much appreciated!! thanks!

[debbyed]

The best leverage is to apply for a Tech position in the ER either Part Time or PRN. At our hospital these folks work as SN 1's or SN 2's depending where you are in your classes. You function as an ER tech. That would give you a wonderful foothold in the area. A large percentage of the new grads we hire have worked with us in some capacidy..By knowing the staff and the surroundings you're one maybe two steps ahead of the game.:yelclap:

[troutfishinEMT]

:yeahthat:

[andhow5, BSN, RN]

I agree with Deb...

And for your certifications (ACLS, PALS,TNCC), why not wait until you're on the job and actually get PAID for attending these courses as opposed to paying for it out of pocket?

[JMBM]

I agree with the above. Unless an ALS/PALS/etc course fell into your lap, I wouldn't go out of my way to get one now. I think the only way a new grad should go into an ER is at a facility with a solid training/preceptor program. Most have the mandatory certifications mixed in, so the tuition is paid and you get paid for your time. Plus the subject matter makes alot more sense at that point. We have several techs in our department who are nursing students. If ED work is their future, they'll have some solid background in ED procedures. More importantly, they'll have experienced the chaos that we work in. That will mean alot to someone doing the hiring later on.