Monday 6 July 2015

Role Of An ER Nurse In A Medical Facility

Whenever there is an emergency, a patient is brought to the emergency room to provide immediate medical assistance by doctors and nursing staff. There are times when medical facilities face shortage and non-availability of emergency nursing staff to meet the needs of emergency. This opens up the doors of opportunity for new nurse graduates as well as nursing professionals to pursue a career of an ER Nurse. Let us see what it takes to make a career in this field of profession - 

Job Duties of Emergency Nurse

The primary role of an ER practitioner is quick and accurate assessment of incoming patients based on medical need. Additionally their main role includes:
  • Identifying the medical problem
  • Check basics like height, weight, body temperature and blood pressure
  • Document medical history
  • Give medication under doctor’s supervision
  • Taking specimens
  • Cleaning & Bandaging wounds
  • Administering medications
  • Maintaining supplies of medical equipment
  • Provide psychological support to patient and their family members

Required Qualification

To become an emergency room nurse practitioner, a candidate first need to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, then obtain the RN license, and then gain some experience as an RN in an acute care setting. Next step is to pursue a master’s degree or a postgraduate certificate program that specializes in acute care or emergency nursing. INSCOL offers one year Postgraduate Certificate for Internationally Educated Nurses in Acute Complex Care from Georgian College, Barrie, Ontario.

Job Options

Emergency nurses can work in wide variety of medical facilities such as emergency departments of hospitals, physician’s office and emergency care centers besides they can also be employed in specialty areas like cruise ships, sports arenas, or emergency transport vehicles like ambulance. 

Working in an ER department is challenging and tiring, as nurses need to be on their toes most of the time and hardly get time for themselves. However, if you are truly passionate about this specialty you will gradually adapt to the fast-paced environment.