[GoLytely]

I would like to get into critical care nursing but can't seem to get a foot hold. I've been an RN for two years and have worked either private duty or the nursing home because I just can't seem to get started in a hospital.

The one time I actually found a hospital that hired me (for telemetry) I had to quit after 3 days orientation because I had a three month old baby who wasn't adjusting well to me being away from him for so long at a time. They hospital was very nice about it and told me to come back when the baby was older. I tried back but right now they don't have any openings. I acknowledge that was my problem.

I know courses and such can't replace good old experience, but is there a course or anything I can take that would make me a desireable candidate for a position in the ICU?

[ukstudent]

A lot of hospitals seem not to hire outside nurses with no prior ICU experience into the ICU. They seem to either hire new grads (to train up) or from within their own hospital if you have no ICU experience.

Best advice is to get a job in a hospital, even if it is not telemetry and then apply for a transfer after 6 months to a year. In the mean time get certified in ACLS.

[calla2114]

I agree ACLS would be a good class. Also try to get ahold of the NM of the ICU you are interested in...talk directly to them!

[Pualehuanani]

Originally Posted by motorcycle mama

I would like to get into critical care nursing but can't seem to get a foot hold. I've been an RN for two years and have worked either private duty or the nursing home because I just can't seem to get started in a hospital.

The one time I actually found a hospital that hired me (for telemetry) I had to quit after 3 days orientation because I had a three month old baby who wasn't adjusting well to me being away from him for so long at a time. They hospital was very nice about it and told me to come back when the baby was older. I tried back but right now they don't have any openings. I acknowledge that was my problem.

I know courses and such can't replace good old experience, but is there a course or anything I can take that would make me a desireable candidate for a position in the ICU?

I agree that it would be best to first get a position in a hospital and get some basic hospital experience. Work on your basic skills and while you are doing that take some courses that would help you be a more attractive candidate for the ICU. An EKG course and getting your ACLS would be good things to have. Best of luck to you!

[elkpark]

If it were me, I'd be looking for any acute care hospital position I could get, and then work toward transferring to ICU after I was "in" and got some general acute care experience.

[Lisa CCU RN]

Where are you in TN? PM me.