Christ ICU versus LCM ER - which should a student nurse choose?

simvee · Apr 2, 2009

Hi, my name's Chris. I'm in my third semester of nursing school and applying for nursing externships this summer. I also work full time in the ICU of a west suburb community hospital. I want/need to keep working at least part time to maintain my insurance and my job for the fall. So I need some help!

I've been accepted for an externship in the ER at Little Company of Mary Hospital in Evergreen Park. They require 5 days a week, which doesn't jive well with working. I suppose if I needed to I could work 7 days a week - 5 at LCM and 2 where I already work. My boss might work with me a bit, or give me a personal leave for a few weeks. Alternatively LCM might work with me to give me 12 hour shifts, although they sounded skeptical when I talked to them about it.

I've also been accepted in the neuro/surgical ICU at Christ Hospital. This is 12 hour shifts, so only 3 days a week. That means 3 days at Christ, and 2 where I currently work, which is fine by me.

What should I do? Christ seems an obvious choice, but I don't know if a neuro/surgery/trauma ICU is too limiting. I currently work in general ICU and like seeing the mix of things, and I'm learning a lot. I was excited about ER, because I'd see everything. Or am I being crazy? Christ seems like a great opportunity, and is it really that limiting? I just don't know.

I also have an eye to future employment at whichever hospital I choose, and I'm not sure which is the better in that respect. On the other hand, I'm sure I could get employed at the other one later on, after I have experience as a nurse.

Wish me luck and tell me whatever advice you want!

Chris