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High-Octane Nursing
Stephen Borkowski / Monster Staff Writer
The Know-How
Responding to life-or-death scenarios means less direct supervision. “We have a high level of autonomy, and the doctors expect us to function on a lot of standing orders and not wait for them,” Howat explains.
This independence comes only after extensive advanced training. “We’re often doing extra education, extra certification,” Campbell says.
A career in the ER requires a lifelong commitment to learning. “We like a lot of variety, we like a lot of stimulation, we like to know a lot about a lot of things,” Howat says. “If you don’t like to learn, this is probably not the best place for you.”
kellycna
about 1 year ago
20 comments
I know I'm just getting started in this career, but I know this is what I want to do!
casassy62688
about 1 year ago
288 comments
I definately think that the ER is where I want to be when I become a nurse. I love to continue learning anything and everything, I work on a cardiac floor right now as a PCA (a tech) and when they call a code.....my heart starts racing, but I don't get nervous, I just love the feeling of knowing that I have certain things to do to help keep that patient alive. I definately think the ER is where I'm going to belong.
NurseNess
about 1 year ago
8 comments
I never knew I was an adrenaline junkie until I started working the ER. I work in a smaller hospital, but we still see everything imaginable. There are some very frustrating moments, but I still love it!
kwindham1
about 1 year ago
10 comments
I love the ER! It does have its frustrations, but the unpredictable nature of the area is AWESOME! And yes, you DO see everything! I can truly say I have a gift for it. Love it!
MARTY259
about 1 year ago
12 comments
As an ER nurse of 12 years I found the article very informative as to what ER nurses deal with.
chattycathy79
about 1 year ago
2 comments
I would like to specialize in the ED,but as a new older grad I am finiding it hard to get my foot in the door. I need training but I have to start somewhere.
Account Removed
about 1 year ago
Working in the ER brings a great experience! Never-ending learning process and challenge!