Critical Care nurses have always been important to the healthcare industry, but in 2020 have been central to much of the urgent care that has been necessary for COVID-19 patients. It’s the Critical Care nurses who are often on the front line in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), fighting to help save the lives of those who are affected worst by the virus. These are key workers in every sense of the word and despite the pressure that many have been under as hospitals continue to be swamped with COVID-19 cases, Critical Care nurses continue to show up and save lives every day.
 
Why are Critical Care nurses so important?
 
These are the nurses who are caring for patients who are in a life-threatening situation. That could be COVID-19 but there are also many other conditions that require the support of Critical Care nurses, whether they relate to a condition such as cancer or the aftermath of an event or accident. The needs that these patients have can be complex and this is a role that requires specialist skill and understanding. Critical Care nurses also need to have an in-depth understanding of the human body and mind and to be able to think critically and quickly in any situation. Because these patients are in such an urgent state, Critical Care nurses play a crucial role in monitoring ongoing conditions and in making the right decisions to help a patient improve.
 
Becoming a Critical Care nurse
 
This type of role requires a registered nurse qualification - which is usually the result of studying for a nursing degree - combined with a broad spectrum of experience throughout a range of different healthcare environments. Critical Care nurses can focus on different specialisms and gaining training and qualifications on an ongoing basis will be geared towards this. There are also a number of skills that are likely to make someone an ideal candidate for Critical Care nursing, including:
 

• Technical knowledge and understanding - Critical Care nursing can include anything, from inserting a central line to enabling ventilatory support, so the ability to grasp technology and procedure is key.

• Strong organisational abilities - Being able to manage multiple requirements for multiple patients is vital, from reading observation charts to managing medication schedules.

• Strong communication and collaboration - Being a Critical Care nurse means being part of a large care team and able to communicate and collaborate with people at all levels and across different departments.

• Resilience - There may be some challenging situations for a Critical Care nurse, including delivering bad news and seeing patients deteriorate so resilience and strong mental health are essential.

• Passion for the job - Critical Care nurses make a huge difference to the experience of patients and their families and friends. It’s an emotionally, physically and mentally demanding role that will be the most rewarding for those who really have a passion for it.

 
Critical Care nurses have a vital role to play in medical care today, especially as the pandemic continues to take its toll on how we live today. The vital care and services will be more valuable now than ever before as we enter a crucial period in the battle to control the spread of COVID -19.