ASN and Critical Care Nursing
As a critical care nurse, you will be caring for patients who are unstable or critically ill, and making sure they receive the best care for the injuries or illness. Getting your associate of science in nursing will help prepare you for this specialty; you will receive a well-rounded education that will equip you will the tools and knowledge you will need to be a nurse.
As a critical care nurse, it’s important to have an extensive knowledge of the human body as well as the technology that is available to you as a nurse. You will use your Associate of Science in Nursing education to give optimal care to patients in need.
ASN and Critical Care Nursing Exams
Like all nursing programs, after graduation, you will be required to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) in order to work in your state. Some employers may require you to have more education such as your bachelor or master degree in order to work within this specialty. However, there may also be some hospitals or companies that will allow you to work as an RN with an ASN.
Critical care nursing is a fast-paced and multifaceted job that requires its nurses to be ready for anything. As a critical care nurse, you will perform evaluations of the patient’s critical conditions, assist with procedures and treatments, provide intensive therapy, administering medication, advocate for your patients and their families, and be ready and on-call for any type of situation.
Employment Settings for ASN and Critical Care
- Hospitals, especially Intensive Care Units (ICU)
- Outpatient facilities
- Accident units
- Nursing homes
Salary for ASN and Critical Care
For a Critical Care Nurse, salary will range anywhere from $60,000 to $90,000 annually. It’s important to remember that there are factors to how much you can make within the field, such as education, geographic location, and experience.
