Though many may be unaware, nursing is a profession that has a variety of paths that one can pursue. From pursuing a career as a nurse practitioner to becoming a travel nurse, there are many options that nurses have to advance their careers and specialize.
One particular specialization that has begun to gain steam as a popular option for specialization is the field of crisis nursing. Crisis nurses are a vital part of keeping the nation’s healthcare infrastructure intact, and the COVID-19 crisis made this extremely apparent.
There are many benefits and perks to becoming a crisis nurse, and for those who feel equipped to deal with the sometimes demanding schedules, specializing in this field can be a viable and lucrative career move.
For those interested in the field and wondering how one can become an in-demand crisis nurse, having an idea of how to get there can help make stepping into the role feel more attainable.
Steps to Become a Crisis Nurse
Many have become more interested in exploring the field of crisis nursing and are curious about how to become qualified for a role as a crisis nurse. Here is a breakdown of the steps that can aid one in becoming an in-demand crisis nurse.
Step #1: Earn a Nursing Degree
The first step to qualifying oneself to become a crisis nurse is to earn either an associate’s degree in nursing or a BS in nursing. These degrees will provide one with a foundational education in nursing and the practices associated with it.
By earning one of these degrees, one will gain the skills and training necessary to be able to practice as a nurse.
Step #2: Pass the NCLEX-RN
The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses is an exam that all registered nurses must pass before being able to practice nursing. To become a crisis nurse, one will first have to be to practice as a registered nurse.
Step #3: Obtain a Compact License
To be able to practice nursing across state lines, one will have to acquire a compact license. As a crisis nurse, one will have to take a variety of jobs in a variety of places. This being the case, obtaining a compact license is a vital step in becoming a crisis nurse.
Step #4: Gain Specialized Certification
Though this is not required, gaining specialized certification can allow crisis nurses to step into more roles and even increase one’s earning potential. There are a variety of certifications that an aspiring crisis nurse can choose from, ranging from Certified Pediatric Nurse certification to Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse certification.
Step #5: Gain Experience
To become qualified to step into crisis nurse positions, one will have to gain several years of experience. Depending on the specialization the number of years may vary, but typically, registered nurses will have to gain at least two years of experience before being able to step into crisis nurse positions.
Qualities Crisis Nurses Should Have
Though the field of crisis nursing can be lucrative, it can also be a demanding one. As such, before pursuing a career as a crisis nurse, one must be aware of the qualities that crisis nurses need to have. Here are some key qualities required to be a successful crisis nurse:
Flexibility and the Ability to Travel Frequently
One of the most important qualities that crisis nurses need to have is flexibility. In addition, it’s vital that crisis nurses can travel frequently — and at a moment’s notice. If one has responsibilities that keep one from being able to be flexible and travel — such as children, pets, or other responsibilities — then it’s likely that one isn’t cut out for life as a crisis nurse.
Crisis nurses must jump into action and travel whenever the opportunity arises, and those who aren’t flexible enough to meet these demands may find a more suitable career in a different nursing specialization.
Ability to Work Well in High-Stress Situations
For crisis nurses, being thrown into high-stress situations is a common occurrence. To be successful in the field, one will have to be able to work well under pressure and be comfortable working in high-stress environments. If one finds that they are unable to deal with stressful situations well — and as a result, it diminishes the quality of their work — then one may not be suited to the role of crisis nurse.
As a crisis nurse, one will have to be ready and able to work in a variety of stressful environments effectively and efficiently.
Ability to Communicate and Collaborate Effectively
As a crisis nurse, one will be thrown into new situations frequently. As such, a key quality of crisis nurses is the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively. Crisis nurses constantly have to work with people that they’ve never met before.
As a result, one must be able to immediately communicate and collaborate well with others at a moment’s notice. If one is uncomfortable meeting new people, communicating clearly, or collaborating with others, then they may not be suited to the field of crisis nursing.
Step Into a New Career
Though crisis nursing is a field that can be challenging at times, becoming a crisis nurse is a great way for nurses to advance their careers and make a higher income.
In addition, crisis nurses are a vital part of the nation’s infrastructure, without which, the healthcare industry would run into many roadblocks. This being the case, those who pursue a career as a crisis nurse can rest assured that they are making an impact while also furthering their career.
Photo Credit
Image by Darko Stojanovic from Pixabay
Guest Author Bio
Sarah Daren
With a Bachelor’s in Health Science along with an MBA, Sarah Daren has a wealth of knowledge within both the health and business sectors. Her expertise in scaling and identifying ways tech can improve the lives of others has led Sarah to be a consultant for a number of startup businesses, most prominently in the wellness industry, wearable technology and health education. She implements her health knowledge into every aspect of her life with a focus on making America a healthier and safer place for future generations to come.
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