7 answers
Kiana
Student
1
Question
Asked
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HOW CAN I BECOME A ER TRAVEL NURSE?
My name is Kiana, a 17-year-old senior and my dream career is to be an ER travel nurse. I have not yet fully applied to any colleges because I am unsure of where to even start in order to enter that field. I was once told I would be required to take prerequisites in order to get into nursing school, but I am unsure how. Can you provide any suggestions and advice, such as what the first thing I should do in order to pursue that career path, and what to do after that?
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7 answers
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1179
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Kiara !
Being a Travel Nurse is such a wonderful career choice and I would like to give you some advice. If you are in the United States, I can tell you what you'll need to do.
In order to become a travel nurse, you would have to go to Nursing School and become a licensed Nurse. Whomever told you that you would have to take prerequisites may be right, however, I would first look at nursing school websites in your area and see what each are requiring. Most colleges have a website and detail the requirements for their program. A big benefit would have been if you have been taking a lot of health science, biology, chemistry. But each college can tell you exactly what you'll need to take.
Once you become a nurse, you will have to work five or more years as a nurse before signing up at a Travel Nurse Agency. These agencies would send you out where and when you are needed. You may even be sent to your local hospital or in a different state or country, but it would be where you are needed. Some agencies provide housing if you are sent far away and some do not. It will all depend. Also keep in mind that you would be sent out as a Nurse and the provider would than tell you where you are needed within a hospital and it may not be the emergency department.
Although when you start your career as a Nurse, you can apply for positions in emergency departments, but most nurses are very flexible and work in whichever department they are needed. So think of it as a very flexible career. Travel Nursing is not adventurous in the vacation sort of way. You can be sent anywhere and must be adaptable, interested and ready to serve all populations.
So right now, looking into nursing schools comes first. Visit the campuses to get an idea of what they're like and ask questions. Most importantly, ask if there is a waiting list for their Nursing program. Pick a Nursing Program that is full track, in person and do not speed up or cut corners on this education.
I hope this sheds some light on how to become a travel nurse and I wish you all the best !
Being a Travel Nurse is such a wonderful career choice and I would like to give you some advice. If you are in the United States, I can tell you what you'll need to do.
In order to become a travel nurse, you would have to go to Nursing School and become a licensed Nurse. Whomever told you that you would have to take prerequisites may be right, however, I would first look at nursing school websites in your area and see what each are requiring. Most colleges have a website and detail the requirements for their program. A big benefit would have been if you have been taking a lot of health science, biology, chemistry. But each college can tell you exactly what you'll need to take.
Once you become a nurse, you will have to work five or more years as a nurse before signing up at a Travel Nurse Agency. These agencies would send you out where and when you are needed. You may even be sent to your local hospital or in a different state or country, but it would be where you are needed. Some agencies provide housing if you are sent far away and some do not. It will all depend. Also keep in mind that you would be sent out as a Nurse and the provider would than tell you where you are needed within a hospital and it may not be the emergency department.
Although when you start your career as a Nurse, you can apply for positions in emergency departments, but most nurses are very flexible and work in whichever department they are needed. So think of it as a very flexible career. Travel Nursing is not adventurous in the vacation sort of way. You can be sent anywhere and must be adaptable, interested and ready to serve all populations.
So right now, looking into nursing schools comes first. Visit the campuses to get an idea of what they're like and ask questions. Most importantly, ask if there is a waiting list for their Nursing program. Pick a Nursing Program that is full track, in person and do not speed up or cut corners on this education.
I hope this sheds some light on how to become a travel nurse and I wish you all the best !
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
561
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Kiana, it's so great to hear from you and your curiosity about becoming an ER travel nurse. It's a thrilling and rewarding career choice, and it's fantastic to see your passion for this path at such a young age. As a 17-year-old senior, there are a number of things you can do to kickstart your journey to become an ER travel nurse. Your first step should be to learn about the requirements and pathways to become a registered nurse (RN), which is usually the initial step in a nursing career. Nursing schools often require applicants to finish certain prerequisite courses before applying, so it's crucial to know what these prerequisites are and how to complete them.
Start by looking into nursing programs at colleges and universities that offer accredited nursing degrees. Find out the specific prerequisites required by these programs, which often include courses in biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and psychology. You might also need to complete general education requirements like English composition, math, and humanities courses. Once you understand the prerequisites, you can arrange your high school coursework to make sure you meet these requirements before applying to nursing school.
Besides finishing prerequisite courses, getting relevant experience and exposure to the healthcare field can make your nursing school application stronger and give you valuable insights into the profession. Think about volunteering or shadowing at hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes to get firsthand experience and explore different areas of nursing. This can help you confirm your interest in emergency nursing and provide valuable exposure to the healthcare environment.
As you move through high school and get ready for college, it's important to keep up a strong academic record and actively participate in extracurricular activities that show your dedication, leadership, and compassion. Think about joining clubs or organizations related to healthcare or community service, pursuing leadership roles, and looking for opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Once you've finished your prerequisite courses and gained relevant experience, you can start the application process for nursing school. Look into different nursing programs and their admission requirements, and consider factors like program reputation, accreditation, faculty expertise, and clinical opportunities. Get ready for the nursing school application process by collecting required materials, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements, and submitting your application by the specified deadlines.
After getting accepted into a nursing program, you'll start your journey to become a registered nurse. Nursing school usually includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical rotations in various healthcare settings, including emergency departments. During your nursing education, make the most of opportunities to learn from experienced nurses, develop clinical skills, and network with professionals in the field.
After graduating from nursing school and passing the NCLEX-RN exam, you'll officially become a registered nurse and can start looking for opportunities in emergency nursing. Think about gaining experience in a hospital setting, especially in emergency departments or critical care units, to build your skills and expertise in acute care. Once you have experience as a registered nurse, you can look into opportunities to become a travel nurse and work in emergency departments in different locations, achieving your dream of becoming an ER travel nurse. Remember to stay focused, dedicated, and resilient as you work towards your career goals in nursing.
Start by looking into nursing programs at colleges and universities that offer accredited nursing degrees. Find out the specific prerequisites required by these programs, which often include courses in biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and psychology. You might also need to complete general education requirements like English composition, math, and humanities courses. Once you understand the prerequisites, you can arrange your high school coursework to make sure you meet these requirements before applying to nursing school.
Besides finishing prerequisite courses, getting relevant experience and exposure to the healthcare field can make your nursing school application stronger and give you valuable insights into the profession. Think about volunteering or shadowing at hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes to get firsthand experience and explore different areas of nursing. This can help you confirm your interest in emergency nursing and provide valuable exposure to the healthcare environment.
As you move through high school and get ready for college, it's important to keep up a strong academic record and actively participate in extracurricular activities that show your dedication, leadership, and compassion. Think about joining clubs or organizations related to healthcare or community service, pursuing leadership roles, and looking for opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Once you've finished your prerequisite courses and gained relevant experience, you can start the application process for nursing school. Look into different nursing programs and their admission requirements, and consider factors like program reputation, accreditation, faculty expertise, and clinical opportunities. Get ready for the nursing school application process by collecting required materials, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements, and submitting your application by the specified deadlines.
After getting accepted into a nursing program, you'll start your journey to become a registered nurse. Nursing school usually includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical rotations in various healthcare settings, including emergency departments. During your nursing education, make the most of opportunities to learn from experienced nurses, develop clinical skills, and network with professionals in the field.
After graduating from nursing school and passing the NCLEX-RN exam, you'll officially become a registered nurse and can start looking for opportunities in emergency nursing. Think about gaining experience in a hospital setting, especially in emergency departments or critical care units, to build your skills and expertise in acute care. Once you have experience as a registered nurse, you can look into opportunities to become a travel nurse and work in emergency departments in different locations, achieving your dream of becoming an ER travel nurse. Remember to stay focused, dedicated, and resilient as you work towards your career goals in nursing.
Bhavna Phulwani
6
Answers
Updated
Bhavna’s Answer
Hi Kiara you should meet your career counselor at school and take guidance from her .Next ,you should check some universities or check out best colleges for nursing and then look up course pre requisites online .A lot of research and best advice is to dig deep yourself .Also ,no harm in trying to network with people employed in this field by checking out online student forums or other similar forums .Check with student advisors at local colleges
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3767
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Kiara,
Embarking on a Career as an ER Travel Nurse
Choosing to become an Emergency Room (ER) travel nurse is a rewarding career path that requires commitment, education, and experience. Here's an easy-to-follow guide to help you navigate your journey towards becoming an ER travel nurse:
1. Fulfilling Education and Licensure Requirements:
Embark on a Nursing Program: Your first step to becoming an ER travel nurse is to enroll in a nursing program. You can opt for either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from a recognized institution.
Ace the NCLEX-RN Exam: Upon completion of your nursing program, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to earn your license as a registered nurse.
2. Accumulating Experience:
Serve in an Emergency Room Setting: To be an ER travel nurse, gaining hands-on experience in an emergency room setting is crucial. This exposure will equip you with the vital skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this fast-paced field.
Obtain Certifications: Enhance your ER nurse credentials by acquiring certifications like Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS).
3. Venturing into Travel Nursing:
Earn Experience as a Staff Nurse: Prior to stepping into travel nursing, consider serving as a staff nurse in an emergency room to hone your skills and build confidence.
Sign up with Travel Nursing Agencies: Investigate and apply to trustworthy travel nursing agencies that specialize in assigning healthcare professionals to temporary roles in various locations.
Embrace Flexibility and Adaptability: Being an ER travel nurse demands quick adaptation to new environments and healthcare settings. Flexibility and adaptability are critical for success in this role.
4. Pursuing Continuing Education and Professional Development:
Further Your Education: Think about pursuing higher degrees like a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or certifications in specialized areas of emergency care to boost your career opportunities.
Keep Abreast of Industry Trends: Stay current with the latest developments in emergency care by participating in conferences, workshops, and continuing education programs.
5. Networking and Fostering Relationships:
Engage with Colleagues: Connecting with other healthcare professionals, particularly those in emergency care, can offer valuable insights and open doors for career advancement.
Find a Mentor: Seek guidance from a mentor experienced in ER nursing or travel nursing to navigate your career path and provide advice and support.
By adhering to these steps and remaining focused on your goal, you can progress towards becoming a proficient ER travel nurse and positively influence patient care in various healthcare settings.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN): The AACN offers useful resources and information for nurses serving in critical care settings, including emergency rooms.
Emergency Nurses Association (ENA): The ENA is a professional body that provides education, networking opportunities, and support for emergency nurses.
Travel Nursing Central: This website provides comprehensive information on travel nursing, including job postings, resources for travelers, and tips for success in the field.
May God bless you!
James Constantine Frangos.
Embarking on a Career as an ER Travel Nurse
Choosing to become an Emergency Room (ER) travel nurse is a rewarding career path that requires commitment, education, and experience. Here's an easy-to-follow guide to help you navigate your journey towards becoming an ER travel nurse:
1. Fulfilling Education and Licensure Requirements:
Embark on a Nursing Program: Your first step to becoming an ER travel nurse is to enroll in a nursing program. You can opt for either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from a recognized institution.
Ace the NCLEX-RN Exam: Upon completion of your nursing program, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to earn your license as a registered nurse.
2. Accumulating Experience:
Serve in an Emergency Room Setting: To be an ER travel nurse, gaining hands-on experience in an emergency room setting is crucial. This exposure will equip you with the vital skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this fast-paced field.
Obtain Certifications: Enhance your ER nurse credentials by acquiring certifications like Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS).
3. Venturing into Travel Nursing:
Earn Experience as a Staff Nurse: Prior to stepping into travel nursing, consider serving as a staff nurse in an emergency room to hone your skills and build confidence.
Sign up with Travel Nursing Agencies: Investigate and apply to trustworthy travel nursing agencies that specialize in assigning healthcare professionals to temporary roles in various locations.
Embrace Flexibility and Adaptability: Being an ER travel nurse demands quick adaptation to new environments and healthcare settings. Flexibility and adaptability are critical for success in this role.
4. Pursuing Continuing Education and Professional Development:
Further Your Education: Think about pursuing higher degrees like a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or certifications in specialized areas of emergency care to boost your career opportunities.
Keep Abreast of Industry Trends: Stay current with the latest developments in emergency care by participating in conferences, workshops, and continuing education programs.
5. Networking and Fostering Relationships:
Engage with Colleagues: Connecting with other healthcare professionals, particularly those in emergency care, can offer valuable insights and open doors for career advancement.
Find a Mentor: Seek guidance from a mentor experienced in ER nursing or travel nursing to navigate your career path and provide advice and support.
By adhering to these steps and remaining focused on your goal, you can progress towards becoming a proficient ER travel nurse and positively influence patient care in various healthcare settings.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN): The AACN offers useful resources and information for nurses serving in critical care settings, including emergency rooms.
Emergency Nurses Association (ENA): The ENA is a professional body that provides education, networking opportunities, and support for emergency nurses.
Travel Nursing Central: This website provides comprehensive information on travel nursing, including job postings, resources for travelers, and tips for success in the field.
May God bless you!
James Constantine Frangos.
Lou. M.
RN
10
Answers
Arlington, Texas
Updated
Lou.’s Answer
Once you graduate high school, find colleges/university that offer the nursing program. After you apply, you will have to talk to a college counselor to help guide your next steps. When I got into nursing, I first did my prerequisites at a community college (It was cheaper) then transferred to a nursing school. There I did an TEAS/HESI entrance exam once I passed I got accepted into nursing school. It took me 2 yrs at a community college and 2 yrs at nursing school.
Also make sure you apply for FASFA/grants/scholarships. If you decide to go straight to a 4 yr university, you will be given a schedule of what courses you need to take.
Nursing is a great choice.. Good Luck!!!
Also make sure you apply for FASFA/grants/scholarships. If you decide to go straight to a 4 yr university, you will be given a schedule of what courses you need to take.
Nursing is a great choice.. Good Luck!!!
Godfrey Magawe
Clinical officer nephrology
82
Answers
Nairobi, Nairobi County, Kenya
Updated
Godfrey’s Answer
Once you complete your high school
You can register for LPN then register with the state nursing board .
Thereafter you can go for nursing sub speciality on ER..
You can register for LPN then register with the state nursing board .
Thereafter you can go for nursing sub speciality on ER..
Tara Sanseverino
Emergency and Trauma Nurse
1
Answer
East Brunswick, New Jersey
Updated
Tara’s Answer
Hello,
Becoming a nurse is an incredible career. First, you must decide which career path you would like to achieve. To become a licensed Registered Nurse (RN), you would need to apply to one of the following programs: a diploma program, an Associate degree (ASN) program ( 2 years) or a Bacceralate program (BSN) (4 years) in nursing to able a degree. After a degree is obtained you are eligible to take the NCLEX to obtain state licensure. As an emergency room nurse, I would suggest applying to work as a patient care tech (pct) or a critical care tech (CCT) while in school so that you can gain a sense of the hospital environment. Travel nurses are expected to achieve the level of an experienced nurse once in the travel role which includes advanced skills and knowledge to be effective in the environment and most orientatons in the ER are two to three shifts only, after the hospital orientation. If an organization has obtained travel nurses to fill roles, it is usually related to short staffing or a strike (crisis travel). It is wise to gain experience such as medical surgical nursing / and or telemetry nursing at minimum, prior to traveling. Emergency nurse roles vary depending on the location (urban, rural etc) also, state organizations are very different than private organizations. Trauma centers often receive more critical care/traumatic injuries therefore, it is beneficial to have TNCC certification. I always suggest to new grads to walk before they fly, in other words, learn the basics so that you can provide safe patient care if you were the only nurse in the room before you travel.
Becoming a nurse is an incredible career. First, you must decide which career path you would like to achieve. To become a licensed Registered Nurse (RN), you would need to apply to one of the following programs: a diploma program, an Associate degree (ASN) program ( 2 years) or a Bacceralate program (BSN) (4 years) in nursing to able a degree. After a degree is obtained you are eligible to take the NCLEX to obtain state licensure. As an emergency room nurse, I would suggest applying to work as a patient care tech (pct) or a critical care tech (CCT) while in school so that you can gain a sense of the hospital environment. Travel nurses are expected to achieve the level of an experienced nurse once in the travel role which includes advanced skills and knowledge to be effective in the environment and most orientatons in the ER are two to three shifts only, after the hospital orientation. If an organization has obtained travel nurses to fill roles, it is usually related to short staffing or a strike (crisis travel). It is wise to gain experience such as medical surgical nursing / and or telemetry nursing at minimum, prior to traveling. Emergency nurse roles vary depending on the location (urban, rural etc) also, state organizations are very different than private organizations. Trauma centers often receive more critical care/traumatic injuries therefore, it is beneficial to have TNCC certification. I always suggest to new grads to walk before they fly, in other words, learn the basics so that you can provide safe patient care if you were the only nurse in the room before you travel.