Need guidance with Nursing future please!

[AmiLynn]

Hello all! I am beginning an accelerated second degree BSN program this August and it will conclude the following August (2015). I currently have have my BS in Healthcare Administration and am working as a pharmacy technician in a smaller, community hospital. My question is, what can I begin to do to give myself the best possible chance for landing an ICU Nursing position after graduation (besides maintaining successful grades!)? I believe that I would be able to work in the ICU at the community hospital that I currently work for, however, I know that my dream is to work in a surgical ICU at a Level 1 trauma hospital. I will begin to volunteer for the hospital that I ultimately wish to work for - what else could I do? That is, after gaining my ICU experience (hopefully!!) at the community hospital. Also, I eventually want to continue on to become a CRNP. Is ICU experience something that would help with that as well?

Sorry for rambling, thank you all!!

[garciwarsi]

Definitely try to get into an ICU for your senior practicum, or last clinical rotation. I would say make sure to get your ACLS certification sometime during school. Maybe on a break before your last term? It definitely won't be easy. I am trying to do the same myself. I graduated from an accelerated BSN program in Sept. A few of the students in my group landed a job in their practicum ICU's right after graduation, but I did not. Our unit didn't have any availability. However, I've stayed in contact with the nurse manager and it sounds like she may have something opening up soon. Good luck!

[AmiLynn]

Thank you so much for your advice! I appreciate it! I'll definitely look into the ACLS certification - maybe over the Christmas break.

[JeanOfAllTraits]

Look into being a NA in the ICU. Obviously the area that you want to be in would be best, but surgical, neuro or any other ICU would help you see if it's really where you want to be.