Meet an ER Nurse
Emergency nurses play a crucial role in triaging patients and providing care for those with serious injuries or illnesses in the emergency room. They experience both the joy of saving lives and the sadness of losing patients, often communicating with their families during difficult times.
Get insights directly from an ER nurse through the following Q&A. Rastisha Smikle, a registered nurse (RN) with over a decade of experience, works in a top hospital system and owns a CPR training company. As a health and wellness influence, she sheds light on the reality of emergency room nursing.
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Q: Why did you decide to become a nurse?
From a young age, I enjoyed playing doctor and always had a desire to help people. Observing my dad, a retired firefighter/EMT, at work, and watching medical shows on TV sparked my interest. My mom often praised my care-giving abilities.
The movie “Patch Adams” truly ignited my passion for nursing. Robin Williams’ character inspired me, and I aspired to make a difference like him. Initially, I aimed to become a doctor, but meeting a friend’s mom, a nurse, in middle school changed my perspective.
When I showed her the movie and expressed my admiration, she said, “Honey, that’s more of what a nurse does.” From that moment, my goal was clear – to become a nurse and impact lives, even briefly.
Q: What led you to specialize in ER care?
Initially, my goal in pursuing ER care was to challenge myself and enhance my nursing skills. My early nursing passion was oncology/cancer patients. However, after six years, the emotional toll became overwhelming. Witnessing loss took a toll. I sought a transition to learn new skills, work in a fast-paced environment, and make a difference.
Q: Describe working in a fast-paced environment.
The ER often feels like controlled chaos, with constant activity. Patients ask, “How do you manage without roller skates?” My focus is on patients rather than tasks, so I try to control elements in my environment to achieve that.
Q: Is burnout more common among ER nurses?
ER settings indeed face high burnout rates and turnovers. We encounter a wide range of scenarios – good and bad. Pre-COVID-19, burnout took longer to develop, but the pandemic introduced fear among frontline workers, accelerating burnout.
Q: What’s patient care like in the ER?
ER patient care centers on critical needs. It’s challenging when patients expect the ER to solve all problems. Often, they leave with the same issue, requiring follow-up care with specialists. Our role involves ruling out life-threatening conditions, admitting patients or facilitating follow-ups.
Q: What’s an unnoticed aspect of ER work?
ER nurses and healthcare providers selflessly prioritize others’ needs. Most hands-on care comes from nurses, leading to frustrations being directed at us. We face complaints, mistreatment, and yelling, often for things beyond our control.
Gratitude goes a long way. Kindness is rare, and a simple thank you reminds us why we persist.
Q: Challenges and rewards of ER nursing?
Losing a patient is a major challenge – consoling families and witnessing their grief is never easy. The rewards lie in healthcare’s unity during tough times. Community support through gifts encouraged us amid challenges.
Q: Advice for aspiring ER nurses?
Embrace the challenge and don’t doubt yourself. There’s a learning curve and culture shock. If the ER isn’t your fit, other nursing paths exist. Hospitals aim to match employees’ strengths for success. It’s not failure; it’s growth.
What ER Nurses Do
Emergency nurses assess critical needs and guide patients to the appropriate care level. Immediate danger necessitates hospital admission, while others need referrals for further care. ER nurses interact with patients, families, and the healthcare team, emphasizing communication and clear directions.
Key Skills and Responsibilities
Triage patients
Conduct testing under medical direction
Update medical records
Inform families
Educate patients and families
Provide emotional support
ER Nurse Career Path
To become an ER nurse, earn a nursing degree from an accredited school. While you can enter with a two-year associate degree, a four-year bachelor’s degree is preferred. After graduation, take the National Council Licensure Examination to become a licensed nurse.
With experience, consider becoming a certified emergency nurse. Certification showcases mastery and dedication to emergency nursing. After around two years of ER experience, pursue certification for an added edge.
ER Nurse Salary
As of July 2021, ER nurses earn an average annual salary of $70,000, according to PayScale. The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 7% growth in nursing jobs from 2019 to 2029. Hourly ER nurse wages average $32.00. Further experience and education can enhance earnings.
The 20 Best Nursing Career Specialties According to Salary
$32.00
Average Hourly Salary
Source: PayScale (July 2021)
$70,000
Average Annual Salary
Source: PayScale (July 2021)
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