Can I tell the recruiter I'm only interested in __ specialty right now?

[Raven Sierra, BSN, RN]

I have a phone interview with a nurse recruiter coming up. The job posting is for all new grad positions at a particular hospital campus of a big system. I'm particularly interested in ICU. The job advertisement notes that there are "few" positions in ICU, and later it mentions that there are "many" positions in other areas, like SNF.

Is it going to "burn a bridge" if I tell her I'm really only interested in ICU positions at this time? I don't want to hurt my chances down the road with her, but I do want to be honest.

[caliotter3]

Tell the recruiter that you are "especially" interested in X, not that you are "only" interested in X, because you know that you will accept the offer, no matter what it is, because job offers to new grads are not that abundant. It does not hurt to ask about the time frame for a possible transfer, in case you want to change an undesirable initial assignment.

[llg, PhD, RN]

I totally agree with caliotter3. Say that you are "especially" or "particularly" or "most" interested in ICU positions, but always say that you would consider others. Few hospitals want to hire people who are inflexible.

[Raven Sierra, BSN, RN]

Thank you both. I will definitely use the more-diplomatic (and more accurate) terms you suggested. I appreciate it!