Would like to go into CCU

Specialties CCU

Published

Specializes in Med surg, cardiac, case management.

When I was in nursing school I really liked my experience in the CCU. So my original plan was to go to Tele first then on to CCU. I even did my externship in Tele.

However, I ended up on a busy med-surg unit instead. Been there about 6 months and I'm managing, but it's tough. Lots of patients, few resources. I plan to be here for at least another 6 months, then start looking for something else. I've been asking around and people who know me usually suggest I look at critical care.

I'm leaning toward CCU because of the previous good experiences. And because I'd like to be a bit more specialized than I am now. But I wonder if my experience makes MICU more appropriate.

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Specializes in Med surg, cardiac, case management.

Anyone?

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Specializes in Endoscopy/MICU/SICU.

Sorry, no info for you. But, I'd really like to know the answer to this because I'm in a similar position. Thanks for asking the question Joe. Can someone answer this for us???

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Specializes in RETIRED Cath Lab/Cardiology/Radiology.

Apply to the unit that interests you the most.

You'll have orientation on either unit, no matter what your background.

You might take an ECG (EKG) class, as a starting point for rhythm recognition (will need that in either ICU).

If you're looking to transfer within your facility, you might check out the 'feel' you get on either unit (are the natives [other nurses ;)] friendly? Is the manager approachable? Patient ratio is?? what do the nurses who work there have to say about their unit? Is there a high turnover rate? etc. Others who work in these units may have more/different questions than I).

Perhaps take a Critical Care course (or courses), to lay the groundwork (so it won't ALL be new when you make the change).

Good luck, whatever you decide!

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Specializes in ICU, ER, EP,.

Our facility encourages following a nurse in a prospective unit for four hours. Now that's on your dime, but we pair prospective transfers with a preceptor staff member, one that they'd likely be tied at the hip to for the 12 week orientation.

Nothing to loose by calling up the managers of the CCU and MICU and asking. If allowed bring a list of questions and be sure to see the other patients in the unit so you can get familiar with the common population of each... watch staff interactions with each other and their relationships with the docs.

The best suggestion I can give you, other than start reading! Hit the library and pull some journals that look interesting. Read up on Heart attack treatment, heart failure, multisystem organ failure, DKA and see what you find interesting. You may find that you love it all!

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Specializes in Endoscopy/MICU/SICU.

Great tips, Dianah and Zookeeper. Thanks a lot for taking the time to answer, we really appreciate it!!

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