Applying for a job in CVICU- interview/resume tips

[bluedi_17]

Hello, I am still a nursing student, I just passed my exit HESI and I have two management classes left to take this summer before I finish my nursing career.

Ever since I started the nursing program I knew I wanted to work in the CVICU and enjoyed my rotations there like words can't explain.

At less than 3 months from graduating I am extremely anxious, I've heard and know it's very hard to gain entry into an intensive care unit, but I truly believe I have the passion, drive, and perseverance that would make me a great CVICU nurse.

I just want some help/guidance/direction to help me achieve my dream....

Thanks

-Azu-

[SRNA2011]

Hi Azu,

I started as a new grad RN in the CV-ICU in a large university hospital. At the time it was a little easier for new grads to get hired in the ICU, but now with economy market and all, I'm hearing it's difficult for a new grad to get hired on any unit. I know that for new grads to get hired straight to the ICU it looks good if you have some kind of nursing exposure to the ICU- whether it was a clinical rotation, extern, nurse aid, or tech. You definately want to mention that in your resume & cover letter. Also, whoever writes your recommendation letters can mention why they think you would be great candidate for the ICU. Larger university hospitals are more likely to higher new grads into the ICU than smaller community ones. So if there's none around your area, maybe think about if your willing to relocate to work in a CV-ICU. Search multiple hospitals and apply everywhere, but just make sure it specifically says "open to new grads" (a lot of openings say "experience required"- don't bother with those) If you find an opening, make sure you keep following up with the recruiter- this can sound annoying, but trust me persistance is key! If you can't find any openings, maybe consider working in the stepdown CV floor/intermediate care unit. This is where the CV-ICU patients are transferred after, and you will get good experience. You are more likely to get hired there and can transfer to the CV-ICU after 6 months to a year if there's a position available. Well I hope this information is helpful, feel free to message me if you have any other questions, I am glad to help. Best of luck in your search!

[bluedi_17]

Thank you so much for your advice. I live in Houston,TX and you are right, the TMC Hospitals are more likely to hire new grads in their ICUs. The reason why I developed this passion for the CVICU is precisely because the majority of my rotations were in that unit even for Peds. I will definitely include that in my cover later.

Thank you for the time you took to respond to my question. I really appreciate it.