[barsk103]

Hi There,
I started as a new grad in a neuro step-down unit and it worked out great. I did have friends that started right in the ICU, and while i know it is a subject of controversy... they all excelled in the Unit. I knwo its not for everyone, but if your up to the challenge i say go for it. You do NOT need a year of med-surg. first!

[yeSICU]

I was a new grad in the SICU and I wouldn't change my decision to do so for the world. I worked as a NA and Nurse tech in the float pool at my hospital so that I had the opportunity to investigate where I wanted to work. I fell in love with the SICU because I like the technical nature of the job and that we did it all: traumas/neuros, GIBs, AAAs, and got over flow from CCU and MICU. Everyone has bumps in the road here and there with any new job. I remember crying on my drive home from work because I felt like I was unable to process or get "it" as a nurse. I would forget to do little things here and there. It is natural for all of us (Although I was happy to discover I was prego during my orientation and blamed my airheadedness to "Thinking for two" lol) A year and a half out I still have a ton of questions and a lot to learn (thank God for the seasoned momma nurses), but I am ok with the fact that I can't know everything and that I come to work and do the best job I can. We all have our days, but ICU is a perfect fit for me, and I hope it is for you too.

[ELKMNin06]

i went into the neuro icu as a new grad. it was challenging but i have done well. it can be done. good luck

[FACE069]

Amen From Louisvile, Ky. Not Sure What You Meant By "we Don't Need Your Kind" But I've Experienced The Same Things. The Truth Is Certain People Feel Threatened By A New Nurse They May Actually Take Their Limelight!!!!!!! Its Not About That But Some Older And New Nurses Feel Like Its All About Them When The Patient Is The Most Important Thing. So I Know My Reason For Being Where I Am, That's To Shine Light In A Place Where Darkness (= Bad Attitude, People Hurting And Depressed, Nasty Attitudes, Laziness, No Patient Advocacy And Etc.) To Touch Lives In A Way That They May Otherwise Not Experience Being Ill And In The Hospital. You Can't Fail If You Have The Skill And Know Why You Are There!