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High-Octane Nursing
Stephen Borkowski / Monster Staff Writer
Demanding and Rewarding
Campbell works two 24-hour shifts per week, and 12-hour days are common in the ER. Howat, who can work up to 10 hours without a break, says the emotional demands are just as great. “When those really serious things come in, the things other people don’t have to look at, that gets to us,” she says.
Campbell says that even when she knows she’s done her best to save a life, she still goes home worrying about a patient’s survival. But the job has rewarding moments, too. “Four months later, we’ve had people walk into our heliplex, and they are now walking, talking, breathing,” she says. “They come to give me a hug, because I’m the person who participated in saving their life.”
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!