TNCC?

[m0lasses]

Hi all. I'm working on transitioning to the ED after four years of varied RN experience in med-surg, NICU/peds float, and some ambulatory agency work on the side. I have been told differing opinions on whether or not to do my TNCC before applying. Some managers and nurses say do it, some say wait. What do you think? It might be helpful to know that I'm hoping to go to a new hospital closer to home rather than stay in my current long commute. I already have current ACLS, PALS, PEARS, NRP, & STABLE training and have shadowed several shifts and did a 2 month clinical in ED. I'm just not sure if I should spend the money on the course. Did anyone else do it before you worked in ER?

[CX_EDRN]

I was in the same position you are in and I did take TNCC prior to going to the ED. I don't really feel like it was that big of a factor in the hiring process nor did it help all that much during the initial traumas I participated in. I audited TNCC a few months after I started in the ED and got much more out of it.

[RNCEN]

IMO, you'll get more from the course after you've spent some time in the trauma environment.

[bgxyrnf, MSN, RN]

I'd say pass on TNCC in favor of ATCN, the nursing side of ATLS.

Either way, I would do one of them right away... if nothing else, some departments require one or the other.

Obviously you're not going to get as much out of it as you would had you been working the ED for awhile but it will help get you thinking in trauma terms.

[ohiosam2]

TNCC is nice, but not necessary. I would not take it unless the place you are working for pays for the course. I would not spend my own money on it. I echo the other comment though, ATCN is totally worth it. Great course. I actually would pay out of pocket for that one.