[cyclechic2127]

I just graduated from an accelerated BSN program and became licensed (yay!). I am going to be working in a cardiac cath lab (again... yay!). But, my goal is to become a CRNA, so I need ICU experience... and no ICUs were hiring new grads when I was applying. Any suggestions on how to achieve this and not make any ememies or burn any bridges?? Work full time in the cath lab and take part time hours or PRN in an ICU?? at the same hospital or different? And, should I talk to the manager of the Cardiac ICU at my hospital and work out something... tell her that I am concerned that I am going to lose my skills (which I am) and want to have clinical experience along with procedural?? I feel like this is a tricky situation, especially since I don't want to make any enemies. I know people switch jobs in nursing after 3 months or so all the time, I just feel kind of bad doing it. Any suggestions??

[classicdame]

You need to learn how to be a nurse. Believe me, you did NOT learn it all in school. That said, if I were you I would consider taking the job and transferring when possible. Some facilities allow that in as little as 6 months. Congrats on your recent achievements and welcome to the world of nursing!

[GrumpyRN63]

I don't think you can pick up PRN work in an ICU without established experience in ICU, in fact, I'm pretty surprised you didn't need ICU or stepdown for the cath lab, in any event the orientation for ICU in my hospital is 6 months and higher for new grads. The nice cath lab, great hours, etc. may not be helpful for you in the long run.... you may need to get out in 9 months or so (not as bad as 3 or 6 )and move on so you can achieve your long term goal, Good Luck!!!!

[meandragonbrett]

Working ICU PRN is typically not acceptable for anesthesia school. You need 1 year full time.