ICU RNs are an integral part of patient care. This blog details how to become an ICU RN and what a typical day may look like.

Intensive Care Unit (ICU) nurses provide care for patients with severe, life-threatening 
 conditions. Becoming an ICU Registered Nurse (RN) requires specialized training, 
 resilience and a commitment to patient care. This blog details not only how to become 
 an ICU RN but also what a typical day looks like.


<h2>Becoming an ICU RN</h2>
<h3>Start with a Nursing Degree</h3>
The journey to becoming an ICU RN begins with earning a nursing degree:
<ul>
 <li>Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): A two-year program that provides 
 foundational nursing education.
 </li>
 <li>Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): A four-year program that 
 offers more comprehensive training and better prepares nurses for specialized roles 
 like ICU nursing.
 </li>
</ul>

<h3>Take and Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam</h3>
 After completing a nursing degree, aspiring nurses must pass the National 
 Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain licensure 
 and practice as an RN.


<h3>Start Earning Nursing Experience</h3>
Most ICU positions require prior nursing experience. Working in medical-surgical 
 units or other acute care settings helps build the necessary skills and confidence.


<h3>Pursue Advanced Certifications</h3>
Specialized certifications enhance an ICU RN's knowledge and marketability:
<ul>
 <li>Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN): Offered by the American 
 Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN), this certification validates expertise in 
 critical care.
 </li>
 <li>Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS): A certification 
 demonstrating proficiency in managing cardiac emergencies.
 </li>
</ul>

<h3>Decide What Type of Job and Apply</h3>
 Once equipped with experience and certifications, RNs can apply for ICU positions. 
 First, though it’s important to decide, if the RN is looking for a travel position, 
 a perm position or a per diem/local position. Hospitals/medical facilities have 
 varying needs and often an agency like Cross Country can help RNs find the best 
 opportunities.


<h2>What Does an ICU RN’s Day Look Like?</h2>
ICU nurses days vary quite a bit depending on patient load and needs. Here's a 
 glimpse into one type of typical day (please note hours and lengths of shifts may vary):


<ul>
 <li>	6:45 AM - Pre-Shift Preparation
ICU nurses often arrive early to review patient charts and receive handover reports from the outgoing shift. Understanding the status and needs of each patient is crucial for a smooth transition.
 
 </li>

 <li>7:00 AM - Start of Shift 
The shift begins with a thorough assessment of each patient's condition, including vital signs, lab results, and recent changes. Nurses prioritize tasks based on patient acuity and immediate needs.
 </li>

 <li>8:00 AM - Morning Rounds
During rounds, ICU nurses collaborate with doctors, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals to discuss patient care plans and adjustments. This interdisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive care.
 </li>

 <li>	9:00 AM - Administering Medications and Treatments
Nurses administer medications, manage IV lines, and perform necessary treatments. They must be vigilant, as ICU patients often require complex medication regimens and frequent adjustments.
 </li>

 <li>11:00 AM - Patient Monitoring and Documentation
Continuous monitoring is vital in the ICU. Nurses track vital signs, observe for changes, and document all findings. Accurate documentation is essential for effective communication and legal purposes.
 </li>

 <li>1:00 PM - Lunch Break
ICU nurses usually take staggered lunch breaks to ensure patient care coverage. 
This time provides a brief respite to recharge for the remainder of the shift.
 </li>

 <li>1:30 PM - Family Communication and Support
Nurses often communicate with patients' families, providing updates and emotional support. 
They explain treatment plans and address any questions or concerns, ensuring families 
feel informed and involved.
 </li>

 <li>3:00 PM - Afternoon Care and Interventions
Afternoon tasks may include wound care, respiratory therapy, and other interventions. 
Nurses remain alert for any sudden changes in patient conditions and respond promptly.
 </li>

<li>5:00 PM - Pre-Shift Handover
As the shift winds down, ICU nurses prepare for the handover to the next shift. They 
provide detailed reports on each patient, ensuring continuity of care.
</li>

<li>7:00 PM - End of Shift
The day ends with final documentation and patient assessments. Nurses leave with the 
assurance that they have provided the best possible care, ready to return and do it all 
again the next day.
</li>
</ul>

Being an ICU RN is a challenging but rewarding journey. This career requires not 
 only the skills but the dedication for the day in and day out patient care. 


If you're considering a career in nursing and have a desire to work in a fast-paced, 
 critical care environment, becoming an ICU RN might be the perfect path for you. If 
 you are already an ICU RN and looking for per diem/local opportunities near your home, 
 Cross Country Medical Staffing Network has them. 
 <a href="https://www.crosscountry.com/local/nursing?utm_source=Blog&&utm_campaign=SOCIAL" target="_blank">Contact us now</a>!

Everything You Want to Know about ICU RNs