Stay in NeuroICU or tx to sICU?

[MLB55]

I have two years Neuro icu experience in a large teaching trauma center in Chicago. I recently started being charge rn as needed, which involves responding to stroke codes. Should I opt to stay in Neuro, or switch to sICU? Obviously my goal is crna. So, if I got into school starting 2014... I would either have 4 yrs Neuro, or 2 & 2 in sICU.

Which would be more preferable...?

[gwapo]

I have two years Neuro icu experience in a large teaching trauma center in Chicago. I recently started being charge rn as needed, which involves responding to stroke codes. Should I opt to stay in Neuro, or switch to sICU? Obviously my goal is crna. So, if I got into school starting 2014... I would either have 4 yrs Neuro, or 2 & 2 in sICU.

Which would be more preferable...?

I think working in sicu will help you clinically.. So if it will be easy for you to move, go for it.. Staying in neuro icu will not keep you from being accepted into a program.

[missnurse01, MSN, RN]

I agree. Make the move. It will show you are eager to learn new areas and that you are willing to do whatever you need to in order to get in . Our Neuro icu , although the main referral hosp across 4 states is so specialized they are a little weak in general icu hemodynamic management .

Good luck !

Always feel free to contact the school you are looking at and ask what types of pts they recommend you getting experience with.

[27medic]

I agree with the above posts, our ICU is separtated into a neuro area at part of our main ICU, and though we see some hemodynamics in the neuro unit, probably not enough. If you do stay in the neuro unit, 2+ years of being a charge nurse would definitely help too though. But you NEED hemodynamics/pressors, etc. The charge nurse is just a benefit.