Am I moving too fast to go into a ICU unit?

[mikeyl242]

Hello, everone.

I am a 2 month post new grad. I have completed my 8 week long critical care course. On top of being a nurse I have been a paramedic for five years and er tech for 1 year.

I have been working on my own in the E/R at nights for the past week, and don't know if it's for me. The nurses and docs are saying I am doing great, and I feel comfortable working in the ER. I like it, but I would like apply for CRNA school in a year. I have many friends that are CRNA's and they tell me to move onto a ICU now. Am I moving too fast to go into a ICU unit, or should I pursue it. The hospital I work for told me I can move to any dept. if I feel the ER is not for me.

Thanks:uhoh3:

[stressgal, RN]

Follow your heart. I started as a new grad in the ICU. LOVE IT! You surely have some great skills through your experience and training, maybe now is the time to move to ICU and focus on the "subtle" changes patient's go through that can be very dramatic in their care. Multi system failures/ compromises can be very intense, but it's a great place to hone your critical thinking skills. Don't try to base your experiences on someone else. If the time feels right, go for it!

[Dakkon76]

Aim high! I graduate in May and I've interviewed for a CICU position at the largest hospital in the region. I don't know if I'll get it or not, but I'm giving it all I can. I want CRNA as soon as possible as well, so I'm trying to hit the ground running. Just do what you're comfortable with. If ICU scares you right now, then stay in the ED or move to a stepdown until you feel you can perform well in the ICU. With your background, you'd probably be comfortable in the ICU.