Gunshot. Flood. Car accident. Terrorism. Or a sick baby.
The 90,000 emergency room nurses see it all, and when an emergency arises, they have to be ready in an instant with knowing hands and sometimes a strong stomach.
ER nurses see patients in their most traumatic state — unstable, fearful, wounded and in need. No wonder they are required to have sharp decision-making skills while remaining calm and compassionate.
Working 10-hour shifts and often rotating between day and night, ER nurses save lives but, strangely, are often the targets of violence. Mental Health Services Administration study report showed that patient violence in hospitals rose from 16,277 to 21,406 from 2006 to 2008.
Emergency nurses master the most current medical procedures and techniques in readiness for any potential disaster; 32 states require continuing education classes for their annual license renewal. With the unexpected occurrence of a tornado, hurricane, flood, blizzard, disease outbreak, terrorist attack, plane crash or highway smashup, ER nurses have to be prepared.
The work of ER nurses involves skilled care for patients of all age groups, with every conceivable illness, injury or condition. These specialists can deliver babies, resuscitate trauma arrests, administer medications, and make life and death decisions.
As a career, ER nursing is a growing profession. Jobs are expected to grow 26 percent through 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). According to BLS, registered nurses make a median income of about $64,690 per year.
ER nurses must have a bachelor's of science in nursing, an associate's degree in nursing or an accredited nursing program degree. Some states require a four-year degree. Also, they must pass a license examination.