How to Become a Critical Care Nurse
Every year, more than 5 million patients get admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) in the U.S. These patients receive care provided by trained physicians and critical care nurses (CCNs) for life-threatening conditions. Due to the complexity of these conditions, it’s crucial to have skilled healthcare professionals who can offer their expertise for critical care responsibilities. One such role is that of a critical care nurse. 
Within this guide to this profession, you’ll find an overview of critical care nursing, the requirements to become a critical care nurse, and steps to pursue a career in this field. Explore the process of becoming a critical care nurse and understand what it’s like to work in this field.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Critical Care Nurse?
It generally takes 2-4 years.
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What Degree Do You Need to Become a Critical Care Nurse?
You’ll require an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
Job Outlook for Registered Nurses (RNs):
Expected to grow by 9% from 2020 to 2030. According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics
What Does a Critical Care Nurse Do?
Being a critical care nurse means providing care to patients facing immediate, life-threatening illnesses or injuries. They work in fast-paced environments like ICUs, pediatric ICUs, and cardiac care or telemetry units. CCNs can also be found in cardiac catheterization labs, progressive care units, emergency departments, and post-anesthesia care units.
The duties of critical care nurses include:
– Assessing, implementing, and coordinating patient care
– Preparing, administering, and recording treatment
– Assisting patients with physician-developed education plans
– Monitoring patients’ vital signs
– Assisting in evaluating tests to determine patients’ conditions
– Aiding physicians during examinations
– Initiating corrective measures and modifying treatment as needed
– Communicating with patients’ families about treatment
– Collaborating with various healthcare disciplines to facilitate care
Steps to Becoming a Critical Care Nurse
Becoming a critical care nurse begins with earning either an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree. Aspiring nurses must then pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
After gaining experience as a nurse, those aspiring to become critical care nurses can pursue certification as a Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) through the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN). However, there are other certifications available for critical care nurses as well.
Program requirements and licensure criteria may vary depending on the state or employer.
1. Earn an ADN or a BSN:
– An ADN equips students with essential nursing knowledge and skills and typically takes two years to complete.
– A BSN program, which takes four years, is suitable for those planning to advance in the profession or meet state requirements. ADN nurses can earn their BSN in two years.
2. Pass the NCLEX Exam:
– The NCLEX assesses a nurse’s ability to apply their knowledge and analyze nursing practice scenarios, focusing on safety and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity.
3. Gain Experience in Critical Care Nursing:
– After becoming a licensed RN, nurses can work in entry-level positions in critical care nursing, such as ICU nurse. Typically, RNs work for two years, gaining experience with a variety of patient conditions. After gaining this experience, RNs have the opportunity to become certified critical care nurses.
4. Consider Certification in a Critical Care Specialty or Becoming a Certified Critical Care RN:
– While not mandatory, CCRN certification can open doors to various opportunities. Other certifications offered by AACN include cardiac medicine, progressive care, and teleICU. Certification demonstrates advanced clinical knowledge.
5. Find Employment:
– With the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 9% increase in nursing positions between 2020 and 2030, there are many potential job opportunities. Job openings can be found on career websites, such as Indeed and Glassdoor, or on the AACN website. Local hospitals and healthcare facilities’ websites can also provide job information.
Critical Care Nurse Education
There are various educational paths and nursing programs for those interested in becoming critical care nurses. While an ADN is the minimum requirement for working as a critical care nurse, some employers prefer BSN-holders.
ADN Degree:
– Suited for those who want to start working in the field quickly.
– Typically takes two years to complete.
– Curriculum includes microbiology, anatomy, pharmacology, nursing principles, psychology, and clinical experiences, with a focus on clinical skills and lab training.
BSN Degree:
– Offers a broader range of job opportunities upon graduation, often with higher salaries.
– Takes four years to complete, or two years for ADN-holders.
– Curriculum includes courses in management, public health, nursing theory, and informatics, along with clinical skills and training in research, management, and leadership.
RN Licensure and Critical Care Nurse Certification
To work as a critical care nurse, you must first earn your RN license after completing an ADN or a BSN program. After graduating, you can obtain your license by passing the NCLEX. Nurses typically work as RNs for two years before pursuing critical care certification.
As per information from Kaplan Nursing, the NCLEX exam consists of various question types, including:
– Multiple choice questions
– Multiple response questions
– Fill in the blank questions
– Hot spots questions
– Chart/exhibit questions
– Drag and drop questions
These different question formats are designed to assess a nurse’s ability to apply knowledge and analyze practical scenarios, rather than just recalling information. This variety in question types helps evaluate a nurse’s competence in various aspects of nursing practice.
RN Licensure:
– To be eligible for an RN license, you must first earn an ADN or a BSN.
– NCLEX focuses on applied practice and analyzing healthcare scenarios.
– Test-takers must register for the exam about six weeks before graduation, and the exam is available year-round, costing $200.
Critical Care Certification:
– AACN requires nurses to have an active and unencumbered RN license and meet specific critical practice hour requirements to become certified in critical care.
– The certification affirms that the nurse has met AACN standards and passed the necessary exam, signifying an advanced level of clinical knowledge.
Working as a Critical Care Nurse
According to the BLS, RN positions are expected to increase by about 9% by 2030, resulting in approximately 194,500 new openings each year. The median salary for this profession is $75,330, with the top 10% earning $116,230. Given the aging population and ongoing healthcare demands, the need for healthcare professionals should continue to rise.
To find a job as a critical care nurse, you can check the AACN website or visit local hospital websites. Job seekers can also explore job board sites like Indeed or Glassdoor for national job listings.
While the core responsibilities of a critical care nurse remain similar, some duties may vary based on the specific setting, such as in a pediatric ICU, neonatal ICU, or a burn care unit. The critical care nursing field offers diverse career opportunities to meet your interests and skills.
Becoming a Critical Care Nurse: FAQs
What degree is best to become a critical care nurse?
The choice between an ADN and a BSN depends on your professional goals. An ADN can be completed more quickly in two years, while a BSN opens up more opportunities and potentially higher salaries.
How can you gain experience in critical care nursing?
To gain experience in critical care, consider working in a general ICU or a specialty ICU in an area that interests you. This experience provides a strong foundation for treating patients in critical or terminal conditions.
Can you earn a BSN or an ADN online?
Yes, it’s possible to earn both ADN and BSN degrees online, but ensure the online program is fully accredited by checking with organizations like the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Is certification required to become a critical care nurse?
No, certification is optional but can be advantageous. CCRN is one certification option, and there are other certifications based on specialty areas. Certification demonstrates advanced clinical knowledge and skills in critical care nursing.
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