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  1. This is a discussion on Career Guidance in Nursing Career Advice ... I am in need of a little guidance in my nursing career. I have been an RN for a few years, and...

    by Dec 10, '12
    I am in need of a little guidance in my nursing career.

    I have been an RN for a few years, and have worked in a variety of settings (Med-Surg, Ortho, Rehab, Hospice). I was an LPN first, so I was able to spend some time working in various area as I completed my RN education.

    I am currently employed in an Ortho/Rehab capacity. While I enjoy the time spent with patients in these settings, I also find it mind-numbingly boring! I also feel my overall skills have diminished in these settings.

    Before I was an nurse, I worked in Law Enforcement and was also an Army Medic with combat experience. And honestly I greatly miss the adrenaline and team work in a high stress setting (probably a little sick, I know).

    I am considering a move to either the ER or ICU. I am relatively familiar with the mission and day to day operations of both entities. Any input on which area to choose and why?

    I greatly appreciate your time and patience with my verbosity :-)
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    by ogerpus Dec 10, '12 5:42 pm
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  3. 5 Comments so far...

  4. Guide
    Dec 10, '12 by
    You might like emergency nursing. See if you can shadow an ER nurse for 4 or 8 hours. If at all possible, make the time between 11am and midnight -- 7am just really doesn't accurately represent what the ER can be like as the day builds. Good luck to you.
  5. Dec 10, '12 by
    I am definitely leaning towards ER, as it seems like a custom fit for my background. I don't really want to work with sick/injured kids, but I guess it comes with the territory!

    Thanks!
  6. Guide
    Dec 11, '12 by
    Agree with Altra - shadowing would be a good move.

    Also - start racking up some certifications. EKG (including 12 lead), hemodynamics, ACLS, ATLS, etc. Those are pretty much required for the specialty area you are seeking. It would demonstrate your commitment & be very impressive to a hiring manager.
  7. Dec 14, '12 by
    I didnt want to work with sick kids either thats why I choose adult ICU and later Surgical Trauma ICU-if you want an ADRENALINE rush
    no make that (rushes) :-) then you won't be disappointed-and if you are at a large teaching inner city hospital take that rush to the 10th
  8. Dec 15, '12 by
    Thanks msjchuck! Good points to consider!