IS the acute care nurse a good way to become a professional in the pre-hospital emergency setting? In some countries, nurses are protagonists in that field. In other places, it’s not a good choice to see and treat patients in out-of-hospital situations.
It is difficult to say which is better, becoming an acute care nurse or a paramedic, as both careers have their unique challenges and rewards. Acute care nurses work in hospital settings and provide care for patients experiencing acute or sudden health problems. They may work with a wide range of patients, from those who are critically ill to those who are recovering from surgery or other medical procedures. Paramedics, on the other hand, work in emergency medical services (EMS) and provide care to patients who are in need of immediate medical attention, such as those who have been involved in accidents or who are experiencing a medical emergency. Paramedics often work in ambulances or other vehicles and may be the first healthcare providers to arrive at the scene of an emergency.
The choice between becoming a nurse or a paramedic
Both careers require a strong foundation in medical knowledge and skills, and both can be physically and emotionally demanding. Ultimately, the choice between becoming an acute care nurse or a paramedic depends on your interests, abilities, and career goals. It may be helpful to research both careers in more detail, talk to professionals in each field, and consider your own strengths and interests before making a decision.
An acute care nurse is a type of nurse who provides care for patients who are experiencing acute or sudden health problems, such as a heart attack or stroke. Acute care nurses often work in hospital settings and are responsible for monitoring and treating patients, administering medications, and providing education and support to patients and their families. They may also collaborate with doctors and other members of the healthcare team to develop and implement treatment plans for their patients. Acute care nurses typically have a bachelor’s degree in nursing and are licensed to practice in their state. To be an acute care nurse, you need a variety of soft skills, including:
- Strong communication skills, to effectively communicate with patients, families, and other members of the healthcare team
- Excellent problem-solving skills, to quickly and effectively assess and respond to patients’ needs
- Good critical thinking skills, to make sound judgments and decisions in complex or stressful situations
- The ability to work well under pressure, to handle multiple tasks and priorities at once
- Physical stamina, to stand and walk for long periods of time and to perform tasks that require strength and dexterity
- Emotional resilience, to cope with the challenges and stresses of the job, such as dealing with critically ill patients and their families
Becoming an acute care nurse
To become an acute care nurse, you need to complete a program in nursing and obtain a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN). This typically takes four years to complete and includes coursework in subjects such as anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nursing theory and practice, and clinical experience in a hospital or healthcare setting. After completing a BSN program, you must also pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed as a registered nurse (RN) in your state. Some employers may also require acute care nurses to have a master’s degree in nursing or a related field, although this is not always necessary.
- Complete a program in nursing and earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN). This typically takes four years and includes coursework in subjects such as anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nursing theory and practice, and clinical experience in a hospital or healthcare setting.
- Pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed as a registered nurse (RN) in your state. This is a standardized exam that tests your knowledge and skills in nursing.
- Obtain a job as an acute care nurse in a hospital or other healthcare setting. Some employers may require you to have a certain amount of experience or additional certifications, such as certification in advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) or critical care nursing (CCRN).
- Consider obtaining a master’s degree in nursing or a related field, if you want to advance your career or pursue specialized training in acute care nursing.
In addition to these steps, it is important to continuously learn and stay up-to-date on the latest developments in nursing and healthcare to provide the best possible care for your patients. This may involve participating in continuing education courses, attending conferences, and reading professional journals and other materials.
Can an ACN work in the Air Ambulance Service (HEMS)?
An acute care nurse (ACN) can work in a helicopter emergency medical service (EMS) setting. In this role, the ACN would provide care to patients who are being transported by helicopter to a hospital or other healthcare facility. This can be a challenging and demanding job. ACN must be able to assess and treat patients quickly and effectively in a highly dynamic and potentially stressful environment. In addition, ACN who works in a helicopter EMS service may also need specialized training in emergency and critical care.
