A question about experience

Tweety, BSN, RN · Jan 2, 2008

Many times the advertised preferences aren't what they get, or what they are even willing to hire for. It just depends on the number of jobs open and the pool of applicants.

It depends on if it's that's hospital's policy to hire new grads. Many facilities now have orientation for new grads in ICU and it works out just fine.

Also, sometimes it's just the luck of the draw, and what their needs are,if they are in need of a nurse, and a nurse with 15 years of med-surg experience applies, they are likely to give them a break.

mcmike55 · Jan 2, 2008

I agree with Tweety (who wouldn't).

What you read on a job description is the ideal.

Kind of the price you set when you have a yard sale,,,,then you start dickering.

Get a good education, as much critical care as you can get. Keep a good attendance record, in other words, be a good employee, even in this day and age, I still believe the good team player gets rewarded!

If there's an internship program, you might try that.

My daughter got into one, and that led to a full time position. During the program, do you not only get unit experience, you get a feel on how the facility works, scheduling, hiring/firings, who to talk to, who NOT to talk to, etc.

Good Luck

Mike

llg, PhD, RN · Jan 2, 2008

I strongly agree with the previous posters. There are usually plenty of opportunities to work in an ICU. You just need to keep heading in that direction as you choose learning opportunities throughout your schooling and early career. You might have to work on a regular med/surg unit for a little while, but eventually, if you do a good job, you'll get a chance to work ICU if you keep heading in that direction.

physjenk · Jan 2, 2008

Ah! Well, thats encouraging. Thanks very much for the input.