Best Starting Spot

HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD · Jul 23, 2015

My standard answer to this question is --- the BEST place to start is the place that can provide you with the support that you need.

I began my nursing career in a Neuro-Trauma ICU..... loved it and chose Critical Care as my 'clinical home' career-wise. New Grads are not all alike. Some require more hand-holding and reassurance than others. Some can hit the ground running and never look back. So the 'ideal' work setting may vary considerably, depending on your own needs. The important thing is that the unit has realistic expectations (of new grads), a clear structure with defined orientation objectives, relevant and easily accessible resources, qualified preceptors and welcoming co-workers. This could occur in just about any clinical area.

BTW, 'radiology nurse' is not actually a nursing specialty area. Some organizations may have a nurse or two who work in interventional areas to manage IVs, monitors and such while patients are undergoing procedures, but these jobs are usually filled by experienced ICU nurses.

Ruby Vee, BSN · Jul 23, 2015

In this economy, the best place to start is the one that will hire you. If you have the luxury of choice, start at the place that offers the best orientation.

Ask questions about the orientation: how long is it, will you have a dedicated preceptor, how are the preceptors chosen, is there a skills checklist you can look at to get an idea of what the orientation will be like -- and anything else you can think of. Ask for a tour of the unit, and look at the nurses. To they look miserable and overworked? Do they cooperate with each other and other services -- teamwork is a must. The specialty isn't so important. Your first two years, you're going to be learning how to be a nurse. After you become competent in your first job, you'll have a better idea of what specialty interests you the most.