New RN grad starting ICU

NurseMJS · May 10, 2000

Hi,

When I started out as a new RN 12 years ago, I also went almost straight to ICU. A couple thoughts to ponder. You might want to work periodically on a medical/surgical floor, so that you can be versatile and able to handle a variety of assignments. Us ICU nurses have a tendency to get into a "Critical" mode, and handling more than a couple patients who are more stable can be challenging, as I have found out, when I've been made to float out of ICU.

Another thought. Find yourself a good mentor. Someone with a similar schedule to yours, and buddy up with that person. Don't be afraid to ask questions, or summon help when you are over your head. Remember, a good ICU means team work, and being a good team player. You'll adapt well if you keep that attitude to heart.

KR · May 21, 2000

Hello to a fellow new grad

I am also a new graduate, soon to take boards in the next month, working in the ICU as well. I saw your post. I thought that you might be interested in being email buddies. My email is [email protected]. Feel free to write me if you wish. It may be nice to be able to talk to someone who is going through something similiar that I am. Either way, BEST OF LUCK to you Kim Rush

SusieNurse · May 22, 2000

I started in my unit 7 years ago as a new grad. Use your head, ask questions of EVERYONE (they can all share different perspectives), and remember there are probably 95 different "right ways" to do anything so long as you don't breach any principals. You will have to earn their respect. I cried for the first 2 years, but wouldn't trade the experience I have for anything. And you can forget floor nursing! I love critical care and the chance to use my brain. Stick with it kid...don't give up...believe in yourself! Email me if you like, at [email protected] Good luck and congratulations!

Originally posted by avybeth:
Hello everybody, I have just graduated from nursing school and was just hired in a critical care unit. I understand that my learning is truly just beginning for me. I am so excited, but also scared! I was wondering if anybody could share some "tricks of the trade" to further my learning process. All replies would be helpful.

tracy maietta,RN · Jun 1, 2000

I am an RN working in MICU as a new grad for 2 years. My advice to you is not to allow yourself to get frustrated. I am just beginning to feel comfortable taking care of the really critical patients. I think the hardest thing for me was trying to get the basics and the more indepth stuff at the same time. I tried to concentrate more on the basic stuff (blood draws, IVs, organization, etc.) for the first four weeks of orientation. Also, don't be afraid to ask to be extended on orientation. I know many new grads who've come to our floor who are embarassed to be extended, but the ones who aren't usually don't do well. One other thing, whenever you have the opportunity to experience anything new, go for it, even if you're just watching. It's the only way you'll learn. If you have any other questions or just need to talk, email me at [email protected].

MQ Edna · Jun 3, 2000

Hi! I was send to SICU immediately after i've grad last year without a choice & i can understand the excitement & apprehension that u're feeling now. Make full use of ur orientation period to ask nurses, doctors as well as other allied health care workers lots & lots of questions & read up on ur free time. I think it takes time to get settle down in ICU & i personally took abt 9 mths. However now i'm so glad that i was posted here to this unit & i'm comfortable taking care of those really critical patients, or 2 moderately critical patients at the same time. All the best to u!

IMINICU · Jul 17, 2000

Hope your experience has been a good one so far. I was a new grad in ICU 9 years ago. I am still there. I love it. I love the challenge and learning something new every day. Don't ever think that ANYONE knows EVERYTHING!! So that means ask, ask, ask!! The best way to learn is to ask and to listen. I work in a teaching hospital so I listen closely to the residents and interns on rounds while they are drilled by the attendings--I can usually pick up something new. Good Luck!! AND WELCOME TO THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF CRITICAL CARE!!

ccnurse · Sep 23, 2000

I also started in MICU fresh out of school and now work in CCU. Like everyone is saying; ask questions, questions, questions!

Ask your manager if they can set you up with a mentor on your shift. This is a great help. My biggest problem was time management, but I made up a schedule that helped me to get through on time most shifts without forgetting things. If you will email me your email address I will email you a copy of it to look at. It really helped me.

Good luck.