SICU or NICU what to choose

Nurses Career Support

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I am nurse of three years and currently work in telemetry/med surg I recently went on two interviews one for SICU at my current hospital (small community hospital) and the other for a level three NICU at a large medical center. I am also currently in grad school for my masters of science in nursing education. I dont know what to do both are so different. I love the opportunity and chance to work in a NICU, but I am already comfortable with adults and I think there may be other opportunities post SICU and I feel that NICU might limit me in the future. Any advice, comments, opinions are appreciated

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NICU for sure. Its a larger hospital means more opportunity and possibility to transfer to other units if you want to go back to adult. It will be a better experience. Plus as a nurse educator the varied experience will serve you well.

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

If I am interpreting correctly & by NICU, you mean "Neonatal" - I can only share my own experience. I have worked in a wide variety of critical care areas. Neo was the only one that I didn't like due to the continuous stress of dealing with ethical issues. It just didn't work for me. Of course, your mileage may vary. The 'other' NICU - Neuro - loved it!!

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