- Nursing
- Nursing specialties
- Emergency nurse
Emergency nurse
An emergency nurse takes care of patients in a wide range of situations, from fevers, to minor injuries and major trauma.
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Required education
ADN or BSN
ER nurse demand
ER nurses are in demand because their specialized skills, efficiency, and steady nerves are a valuable asset to any emergency department.
Varied
Take on different tasks, patients, and situations every day.
Fast-paced
React and make decisions quickly in demanding conditions.
Patient-facing
Work hands-on, directly with patients.
Structured
Follow a routine that allows you to anticipate and prepare for every situation.
High demand
This specialty is in high demand in the U.S.
What is the role of a emergency nurse?
You’ll thrive on working in a challenging, fast-paced environment where every case is different. You’ll multi-task and make split-second decisions that’ll save lives.
What you’ll do as an emergency nurse
Collaboration
You’ll work with clinical and support staff to ensure optimal performance and results.
Collection
You’ll gather patient data, find out if they have any medical conditions and keep a record of changes to their status.
Education
You’ll advise patients, family members and advocates.
Treatment
You’ll administer medication and help manage pain.
Where you’ll work as an ER nurse
Emergency nurses work in a variety of settings, including:
- Ambulances
- Helicopters
- Hospital emergency departments and triage centers
- Sports arenas
- Urgent care centers
What’s the day-to-day life of an emergency nurse like?
Find out what Avery, BSN, RN, CEN, loves most about working in the pediatric emergency room.
My favorite thing about working in the emergency room is that no two shifts are the same.
Avery
Emergency room nurse
How to become an emergency nurse
Get an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
When considering a future nursing career, it’s important to explore the different nursing programs available and the paths they offer. With various options like associate degree programs, bachelor’s degree programs, and direct-entry master’s degree programs, prospective students can choose the educational path that best suits their goals and interests.
Pass the NCLEX-RN.
The National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) is the all-important step between graduating from nursing school and becoming a nurse. It’s a standardized test, set by the Board of Nursing in each state, that makes sure you have the knowledge and skills you need to work in the field of nursing.
Work as a Registered Nurse gaining two years’ experience in emergency nursing.
Pass the Certified Emergency Nurse exam through the Emergency Nurses Association.
You’re ready to work as a emergency nurse!
Emergency nurse career resources
Become a member of an emergency nurse organization to find career opportunities, learn from your colleagues, and support the profession.
Emergency Nurses Association
Emergency Nurses Association
Related nursing specialties
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Critical care nurse
A critical care or ICU nurse takes care of patients who are in a critical condition or recovering from a serious medical condition. -
Perioperative nurse
A perioperative or surgical nurse cares for patients before, during, and after surgery, and other invasive procedures.
