Any new grads that went into the ICU?

[KR]

Hi.

I am in the process of interviewing for a new grad into the ICU fellowship program. The hospital has 2 ICU. The program is 4-5 months long. We work with one nurse in the one unit for 20 hours a week, and work a different nurse in the other unit for 20 hours a week. We have the same two preceptors throughout the entire program. We attend a 120 hour Critical Care Class, 45hr Trauma class, a BAsic EKG class, and a ACLS class by the end of the program. I know there is a lot of controversy over new grads being in the ICU. This is really where I want to work. I work in a different hospitals ICU now as an assistant and I love it. I was just wondering if there was anyone out there that went through a similiar program to talk to. If anyone has I would appreciate a post or email. Thanks. Kim

[KR]

Hi Everyone!!

Just a little update. I have been working in the ICU now for about 6 months. I got off orientation a while ago, and everything is going great. The hospital I work at is a level 2 trauma hospital, and we have 34 beds of ICU space. Our two combined ICU's do it all. Neuro, trauma, open hearts, medical, etc. I did go for the hospital that has an orientation established for new grads. They hired 10 new grads including myself. One new grad was asked to leave, because he could not handle the stress. But everyone else is hanging in there. I do have a pretty strong medical background going into the ICU, but the other 2 people that got off orientation when I did have no medical background and they are doing great as well! The other new grad group is scheduled to come off in mid November. Some new grads are doing well, but I have heard complaints from the staff on a couple of the new grads. But new grads can do it, even with no medical background Just wanted to update everyone. Thanks to everyone for posting, it is always interesting hearing what everyone else has to say. Good luck and stay safe! Kimberly Rush, RN