Contents
Diversity can reduce disparities
A more diverse RN workforce could benefit patients in a big way.
Free CE modules for nurses!
Take advantage of these educational opportunities today.
Diversity stats are telling
Data on U.S. population and RN population show imbalance.
Associations weigh in on issue
Understanding nurses' and patients' cultures are equally important.
CE: The uncommon handshake
This simple gesture can mean a great deal to patients.
NBNA endorses education goals
Mentoring and scholarships show students they have support.
Chasing diversity in nursing
Increasing diversity is a challenge that's worth the effort.
Caring for LGBTQ patients
Discrimination and access to care are challenges for this population.
Diversity goes deeper than DNA
Cultural diversity, competency are keys to improving nation's health.
NAHN focuses on recruitment
Diversity initiatives simultaneously target health disparity rates.
Inclusion's role in diversity
Inclusion underscores the need to value each individual on a team.
Precision medicine targets genetics, societal factors, and more.
Wave of the future
CGFNS is going strong
Its support of global nursing workforce remains a priority.
The law has role in diversity
Legal protections exist to promote and protect diverse groups.
Contents
It's about synergy and family
Critical care units are more family-friendly than they once were.
No easy choices
RNs' turmoil over treatment decisions has a lasting impact.
Alarm overkill
Too many alarms can be as dangerous as too few.
Safety for overweight patients
A critical care patient's weight plays into care and equipment decisions.
Profile of a critical care nurse
Their character traits can make a difference in their success.
Critical care nurse survey
What do these nurses have to say about their specialty?
FREE CE: Coagulation cascade
Learn about the pathophysiology and treatment of DIC.
Continuing education catalog
Find serious topics in critical care nursing and earn credit.
AACN president talks goals
The association represents over 500,000 acute and critical care RNs.
Nurses vs. pressure ulcers
Fighting this issue involves knowing the latest on treatment.
Pain is a peculiar problem
There is no one-size-fits-all method for easing pain for patients.
Avoid legal risks in critical care
Steer clear of lawsuits by dotting i's and crossing t's — always.
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Profile of a critical care nurse
Specialty demands nurses with 'the right stuff'
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By Eileen P. Williamson
MSN, RN
At one time or another I’m sure you’ve heard the term “the right stuff.” You might think of it as the integral tools or ingredients for a project or as a phrase used in the business world to define someone who has capabilities and qualities that make him or her the perfect fit for a particular job. But what is the right stuff when it comes to critical care nursing?
Typical job descriptions for critical care nurses describe them as members of one of the most complex and challenging specialties in nursing and itemize
the required education
, training, skill, certification and experience the specialty requires. But an individual’s character traits are just as important in having the right stuff. As a nurse who has worked with critical care nurses and has relied on them to care for my loved ones, here’s what I think those traits include.The ideal critical care nurse …
1.
Has strong clinical, assessment, communication and observational skills.
2.
Is an advocate for patients and families.
3.
Is a leader who can take the initiative, make tough patient care decisions, and accept accountability for outcomes.
4.
Likes learning from others, as well as teaching.
5.
Thrives on change and works as a change agent.
6.
Can serve as a manager, policy maker or strategic planner, but also is a Type A personality who wants to be where the action is and where he or she is most needed.
7.
Is a confident self-starter with strong critical thinking skills
8.
Is always vigilant, responsive, efficient and organized.
9.
Can think and act autonomously, but also functions well on an interprofessional team.
10.
Is passionate about the job and compassionate and empathetic with patients and families.
Because critical care nurses are present during some of the most difficult patient care moments, they need to be knowledgeable about patients’ rights, ethical issues and the end-of-life scenarios they will eventually be faced with. The gravity of patients’ conditions require nurses with nothing less than the right stuff.
If you’re a critical care nurse, we recognize and applaud you for what you do. If you’re currently in another specialty and considering a move to critical care, I hope this information will be helpful in your soul searching about whether to join the specialty.
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