Critical Care Nursing Critical care nurses work with patients that are considered in a very vulnerable state. Patient ratio is lower for critical care nurses, as the patients require more one on one care. Critical care nursing, often referred to as intensive care, or ICU nursing is a specialty field of nursing. This position requires extreme focus and attention to detail, in addition to a great amount of experience to play an active role in monitoring patients. These nurses care for patients with life threatening conditions, which often makes this particular field of nursing very high in demand. Unlike other areas of nursing, where patient care involves vitals, assisting with mobility, bathing, etc., critical care nurses focus on complete patient medical care, essentially keeping the patient alive. Patients can worsen very quickly in ICU, and the nurse that cares for them is there to stay one step ahead in recognizing problems. As a general rule, critical care nurses are only responsible for one and occasionally two patients for the entire shift. The pace of critical care is hectic, and unlike other areas, remains the same 24 hours per day. Training for Critical Care Nurses There are two main certifications for critical care nurses. One is CCRN, which is certified critical care registered nurse. In order to earn this certification, a nurse is required to pass a very intense exam, followed by a review exam every two years. In addition, continuing education is required; the amount can vary by state. Classes must be accredited and approved to count towards the continuation of education. The second certification is the CNRN, which is the certified neuroscience registered nurse. This certification applies to nurses working with patients suffering from neurological disorders, or brain injuries. This specialty field of nursing is often very prevalent in rehabilitation centers or hospitals that specialize in traumatic brain injuries. Related: Patients with Sexually Transmitted Diseases Tips for Working in ICU When family or friends visit patients in the intensive care unit, it can be beneficial to offer some tips to them. Many have never been exposed to a critically ill patient, and they may be at a loss on what to say or do. It may be very helpful to offer some advice to ICU visitors. Speak calm and clear, and make sentences short with a positive note. Sometimes visitors will raise their voices, almost yelling because their
loved one is on a ventilator. Remind the visitor, the patient can hear normally, the ventilator has no effect on hearing. If the patient is on a ventilator, it's fine for loved ones to explain to them what is going on and what to expect next. A reminder not to ask the patient questions they cannot answer is important. It can be frustrating for the patient not to be able to answer; however, in many cases a nod yes or no is all they can provide. Ask family members to bring a dry erase board for communication that can eliminate frustration. Remind the family that their visit should be timed according to patient needs. If a patient is trying to sleep, and there are 4 family members in the room talking, there is little chance they can rest. Related: Depression during the Holidays Intensive care is a very important part of a medical facility. Patients are as close to sickness or have severe injuries, and are as close to death as they can be while still among the living. Many ICU unites limit the number of visitors and May only allow 1 visitor at a time, and sometimes for a specified amount of time. Some family members may not appreciate the rules, however, reminding them the rules are in place to serve the patient's needs, usually serves the purpose. It can be a very stressful time for families, the uncertainly of their loved one's condition can raise tensions, and shorten tempers. It is crucial, however, that an ICU area remain calm and quiet. If you have ever considered working in ICU, determine what additional education is needed, as many hospitals will offer tuition reimbursement. You need to be a quick thinker, and have the ability to react immediately under very stressful circumstances, but working in this department provides a very valuable experience. Related: Acclaimed Registered Nurse Jodie Tremblay, RN, ASCN, will be Highlighted in the Worldwide Leaders in Healthcare Please follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Pinterest, Twitter