Am I ready to get in ICU

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Hi,

I have been working at TCU for 2 years after I graduated from BSN program. I am thinking to apply ICU position in my hospital. I want to become a ICU RN. I am wondering I am ready for getting in ICU. My unit is little faster paced unit compared to other tele units. I have been taking care of post CABG pt's, post stent pts, post MI, and pre/post transplant pts. I like critical thinking. I have been acting properly in the pt's deteriorating events. however, I am still not fast enough(I think) to work smoothly. My IV or other nursing skills are okay. I can handle some stress, but not too much. I am little worried if I can handle stressful ICU environment.

Do you think am I ready to get in ICU?

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Of course, not knowing you or your ICU, I can't answer that question. Maybe you should try shadowing an ICU nurse for a few shifts. Your comment about stress is a little concerning to me. ICU can definitely be stressful and to be a good ICU nurse, you cannot "freak out" in an emergency.

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Great suggestion to try shadowing an ICU RN for a couple shifts...maybe even try a couple different shifts... I know in my unit there is a definite difference in activity and just the general "vibe" from shift to shift and you may want to sample a few to get the whole picture.

Stress/stress management is a huge component of an ICU position...I would encourage you to look at what kind of stresses (pt condition changes, family interactions, interdisciplinary communication, coworker interactions, etc) you manage well, and what kinds you struggle with. Be aware of this before you shadow and see how your "problem" stress area(s) would be challenged in the ICU environment. Just try to honestly picture yourself in the position of the RN you are shadowing and ask yourself "Could I do this...day in and out?" If the answer is yes, then good luck and welcome to ICU nursing!! If not, don't beat yourself up over it...nursing offers so many areas for us to try, and if not ICU, then there must be something else better out there for you instead!!

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Thank you for your reply!! I will do that!

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