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
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