New Nurse...

I can't speak from personal experience (yet) but two of my best friends are beginning their 3rd year working in the PICU (first job out of nursing school for both of them) at a large hospital and they love it. I don't know how much longer they'll stay there and it is definitely an emotionally charged job, but they both have really enjoyed their time there so far. And I imagine they have learned a lot, they are both really good at their job, patients' parents often request them as their nurses, etc.

If you're planning on a PICU career, may I suggest that you try to get as much exposure to critical care as you can while you're still in school? There is a LOT to learn in PICU and if you've already learned the basics, such as hemodynamic monitoring, accessing and caring for invasive lines, drug titration and critical care assessment, you'll definitely have an advantage. Kids are not small adults and assessments of norms is very specialized, plus the growth and development angle is extremely important. But it certainly can be done...

My PICU hires plenty of new grads, and their success depends on the quality of orientation. 99% of our new grad hires do great in the long run, and the 1% that don't aren't bad nurses, just more suited for a different specialty. Going out on your own at first when orientation is done is scary both for the new grad and the seasoned nurses around you. It can be done, and if you feel strongly, go for it! Getting a PICU tech position while your in school can also be very beneficial. Research your PICU before taking a position and find out how the orientation process works. Good luck!

gab.rielle,

Hi. I say go for it. I started my career and life as a nurse in the PICU and have loved every bit of it (still do too). You seem to already have a special connection with the PICU life from your experience in one. Many new grads are hired onto our unit now and have grown and developed into wonderful nurses. Care of children, in a PICU especially, is a wonderful specialty. Hope the best to you and I'm sure you'll choose what is best for you.

-T