Starting Nursing Career in the Burn ICU

I know you were looking for some input from experienced CCRNs; thought you might like some feedback from someone who's been in your spot recently, too. I started in a Trauma/Burn ICU straight out of nursing school last October (with ~10 years EMS experience) and while it's been frustrating at times, it's been a great experience so far and I feel that I've easily learned more in the past 8 months than I would have out on the floor, trying to juggle 5,6,7 or more patients. If your facility offers ABLS training, I suggest taking it. ACLS too, if you can. Good luck!

Mike in Michigan

I'm no CCRN, but I was in the same position as you - All I have to say is DO IT!! I started in the BICU as a new grad approx. 9 months ago - There are times when I want to cry & pull out my hair, but that would be the case no matter where you go. There's always going to be good days and bad days... You get to focus on 1-2 patients plus with burn nursing you get everything, especially psych experience!!! Hehehhee... Good Luck!!

What type of questions should you ask during shadowing of a burn ICU? (I am thinking about beginning in burn as well)

I also started out as a new grad in a Burn ICU. Go for it if you have the chance, it was an unforgettable experience - from accidents, to house fires, car fires, pts attempting suicide, struck by lightning, homicides, domestic violence, plane crashes, injured firefighters, TENS, meth lab blow-ups, burns from crack pipes, child abuse... there is also a lot of media attention around burn pts. Anywhere you go after this, you can handle it.

Be aware that patients and families will have a lot of psychosocial needs as well as physical. And don't forget to take care of yourself! I would also recommend ACLS, ABLS, PALS if you also do children, most likely your facility can hook you up. You may also want to see if there is a camp for kids with burn injuries in your area and get involved that way as well.

Good luck as you start your nursing career.