How to Become a GI Nurse
As a gastroenterology (GI) nurse, you’ll be at the forefront of caring for patients with digestive conditions like acid reflux and Crohn’s disease. It’s a tech-driven field, where you’ll not only provide hands-on care, but also assist with procedures like endoscopies and colonoscopies, working alongside gastroenterologists and other members of the GI team.
With more than 60 million people diagnosed with GI conditions in the U.S. alone, you’ll be part of a dynamic team, helping to diagnose, treat, and support patients through their digestive health journey. If you’re aiming for a career in this high-demand specialty, reading this guide is a great first step.
GI Nurse: Career Snapshot
- Mission: Assisting with the treatment of gastrointestinal system disorders
- Duties: Assessing, diagnosing, and treating GI conditions in collaboration with primary care providers
- Workplaces: Hospitals, outpatient clinics, endoscopy centers, and gastroenterology practices
- Path: Nursing degree followed by optional certification
- Timeline: Approximately 2 to 4 years
What Is Gastroenterology Nursing?
GI nursing is a specialized field of nursing focused on the care of patients with conditions affecting the digestive system. Since the GI system is complex and includes organs from mouth to anus, as well as the entire process of digestion, you can expect diversity in your workflow.
Wondering what kinds of conditions you’ll treat in your unit? Here are a few common ones across the U.S.:
- Abdominal wall hernia
- Chronic constipation
- Diverticular disease
- Gallstones
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Gastrointestinal infections
- Hemorrhoids
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Irritable bowel syndrome
What Does a GI Nurse Do?
Wondering what your typical day might look like in this role? While it can vary depending on your workplace, here are a few examples of typical responsibilities:
- Prepare patients for endoscopic procedures such as colonoscopies and sigmoidoscopies.
- Administer medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and laxatives.
- Monitor patients for complications following GI procedures, such as perforation or infection.
- Prepare patients who are undergoing tests like fecal occult blood tests (FOBT) and barium swallow studies.
- Care for patients recovering from GI-related surgeries like bowel resections and stoma surgeries (e.g., ileostomies and colostomies).
- Oversee patients on enteral feeding tubes (e.g., PEG tubes and nasogastric tubes), including tube placement and managing complications like aspiration.
- Support end-of-life care for patients with advanced GI cancers or chronic liver disease, including pain management, nutritional support, and therapeutic communication.
- Care for patients pre- and post-liver transplant, including managing immunosuppressive therapies, infection control, and organ rejection monitoring.
That’s quite a list, right? But don’t worry — you’ll be working as part of a team with specialists like gastroenterologists, nurse anesthetists, endoscopy techs, physician assistants, and certified nursing assistants.
Where Can a GI Nurse Work?
These dedicated professionals enjoy workplace versatility, with the ability to find employment in many different settings. Here are some common places where they work:
- Acute care centers
- Endoscopy centers
- Specialized GI clinics
- Ambulatory surgery centers
- Transplant centers
- Operating rooms
- Long-term care facilities
- Home healthcare
- Medical device companies
- Palliative care facilities
- Hospices
How to Become a GI Nurse
Let’s explore the key steps to start your journey in this fast-paced and meaningful nursing specialty.
1. Earn a Nursing Degree
If you’re aiming for a speedy start, an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) can have you working in as little as two years. For those seeking more in-depth education, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a great four-year option.
2. Obtain Licensure
Your next step is passing the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) and completing all necessary paperwork for your state’s board of nursing. Once you’ve done that, you’ll officially be a licensed registered nurse, ready to begin your professional practice.
3. Gain Experience
Now it’s time to get a job and start gaining experience. While you may be able to secure a job in the GI specialty as a new graduate nurse, you may also gain experience in other specialties which provide you with a diverse set of skills that will be useful in a GI setting:
- Medical-surgical nursing
- Emergency room (ER)
- Intensive care units (ICU)
- Progressive care
- Oncology nursing
4. Attain GI Nurse Certification
Want to become a certified GI nurse? The American Board of Certification for Gastroenterology Nurses (ABCGN) offers the Certified Gastroenterology Registered Nurse (CGRN) professional credential. Here’s a quick look into the certification journey:
- Eligibility: You need an RN license, 2 years of full-time work (4,000 hours), or part-time equivalent experience, in GI or endoscopy within the past 5 years, plus contacts of 2 qualified professionals who can verify your experience.
- Preparation: Read the certification handbook and follow all the guidelines.
- Application process: Submit an online application through the ABCGN Certification Center and wait for the authorization to set up your exam. You’ll be able to take it through Prometric testing or remote proctoring.
- Exam: There are 175 multiple-choice questions (150 scored and 25 unscored).
- Cost: $520
- Renewal: Every 5 years
5. Pursue Advanced Education (Optional)
Ready to aim higher? Pursue advanced education, like a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, or become a GI nurse practitioner. Although this step isn’t required to enter this field, it can give you top-tier clinical training and open doors to advanced practice and leadership roles.
How Much Do GI Nurses Make?
The typical GI nurse salary in the U.S. is about $76,000 a year. Your pay may be higher if you have extensive education and solid experience in nursing. GI roles in high-demand areas or larger healthcare systems can also pay more.
Geographic location is another major factor in salary differences. Consider applying to these top-paying states for nurses:
Frequently Asked Questions: GI Nursing
How long does it take to become a gastroenterology nurse?
Getting into this field usually involves finishing a nursing program, which typically takes two to four years. Some facilities may also require a residency program before you can start your job, while others may require at least one year of experience, which can add to the timeline.
What skills are important in GI nursing?
Strong communication skills are essential for explaining procedures and educating patients about the importance of changing their diet, which is often a part of GI treatment regimens. Additionally, soft skills — like compassion and active listening — are crucial, as many patients may feel anxious or embarrassed about their GI issues.
What is the job outlook for GI nurses?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a 6% increase in nursing jobs over the next decade, but the GI specialty might see even more growth. With fast food and food addiction on the rise, GI-related issues are becoming more common. In fact, an unhealthy diet has become a leading risk factor for death globally.
How do I become a gastroenterology nurse practitioner?
To become a nurse practitioner, you first need to earn a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing (MSN or DNP) to become an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN). You can then specialize in gastroenterology through additional training, experience, and certifications.
Can new grads become GI nurses?
Yes, new nursing graduates can become GI nurses. While some roles, such as GI lab nurse or endoscopy care, may require prior experience, there are opportunities for new grads to enter this high-demand field.
What challenges do GI nurses face?
One challenge GI nurses face is burnout. The demanding nature of their work, including long shifts and the pressure to manage multiple patients, can lead to physical and emotional exhaustion. To combat burnout, prioritize self-care, maintain open communication with your team, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed.
What steps can I take to advance in my specialty?
If you want to become a top-notch candidate on the job market, advance your practice by attending conferences, taking continuing education courses, and joining professional organizations, such as the Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates (SGNA).
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