Critical Care Nurses
Nursing
Critical Care Nurses provide specialized nursing care for patients in critical or coronary care units, caring for patients with life-threatening conditions requiring continuous monitoring and complex interventions. They evaluate vital signs and laboratory data to determine emergency intervention needs, monitor for changes indicating conditions such as sepsis or shock, and administer advanced life support treatments.
Working conditions
These nurses work in hospital intensive care units (ICUs), coronary care units (CCUs), and critical care departments where they manage patients requiring the highest level of medical and nursing care. Work involves sophisticated monitoring equipment, ventilators, and life-support systems, with shift work including nights, weekends, and holidays in high-stress, fast-paced environments requiring quick decision-making.
Academic requirements
This occupation requires a registered nursing degree and active RN licensure, with most positions preferring a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Certification as a Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) through the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) is often required or strongly preferred, requiring specialized critical care training and experience.
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Typical salary range
$58K - 107K
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Years Higher Education
2 - 4
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Job Outlook
Excellent