Anyone wishing to become a trauma nurse should first obtain an appropriate degree in nursing. These degrees include an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN), which are generally two to three year degree courses. Another option is a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) course. Once you have earned a nursing degree, it is then necessary to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a Registered Nurse (RN) in most states.
While pursuing trauma nursing certification, a nurse can expect to receive advanced education and hands-on skill training in initial assessment of patients, ventilation, shock and disaster management. Trauma nursing courses also include sections on the mechanisms of injury and how to treat trauma to specific areas of the body like the brain/head, abdomen and musculoskeletal system. These courses also educate nurses on how to treat pregnant, elderly and pediatric trauma patients.
Certifications in trauma and emergency nursing are available in a variety of formats. The Trauma Nursing Core Course, offered by the Emergency Nurses Association, offers verification of satisfactory course completion. Nurses can also pursue Board Certification in Emergency Nursing by taking the BCEN exam offered by the Emergency Nurses Association. There may also be local and regional certifications available, such as Illinois' Trauma Nurse Specialist.
The most prominent professional organizations for trauma and emergency nurses are the Emergency Nurses Association and the Society of Trauma Nurses. These organizations facilitate a majority of the training courses available for those looking to enter the field of trauma nursing. There may also be regional, state and local associations available to trauma nurses.