CCU exp as a new grad

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I'm seeking some advice regarding how to get into CCU as a new grad. My advanced med/ surge rotation in school was in CCU and I really enjoyed it. I liked it much more than the med/surge floor. However, I've heard many stories of it being difficult to get into a unit as a new grad. My nursing degree will be an ADN and I have a BA in psych. Hoping to finish that BSN soon. I've been looking at some CEU programs and workshops for EKG, arrhythmias, ACLS and the like. What else do you think would make me a strong candidate to a hiring manager? Thanks-

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Specializes in Cardiac.

Have you considered working as a tech/CNA on a CCU? Not only will they train you how to monitor rhythms, but you will be able to see how specific cardiac treatments, meds, caths, and stress tests coincide with those rhythms. I work on an ICU as a tech, and I love it! I just learned how to wedge a PA the other day, and A-lines and balloon pumps are a sinch to learn when you see them enough. Also, you will be a shoe in when they hire because you are already an employee. As far as EKGs go, "ekgs made incredibly easy" is a good book.

Another reason being an employee is beneficial is that even as a tech at most places, they will pay for your training for ACLS, and other cool classes!

Good Luck!

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I liked that book as well. Thanks for the good info. I may see if I can't get in as a tech while I wait for my NCLEX date. My concern though, would be that they wouldn't want to take me for that position knowing that after boards I'll be seeking an RN position and not looking to stay as a tech.

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Specializes in L&D/MB/LDRP.

My friend went to CCU from school. She did great & loves it. It's a pretty high demand area and she had no problem getting hired. That's in OK. I'm not sure how it is in other parts of the country. Talk to some recruiters at area hospitals and express you desire to work in that area. They will pay for all the classes you need to take so don't spend any money yet.

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Specializes in Cardiac.

Most hospitals will hire you as a tech because you are going to be a nurse there. I don't know where you live, but here in AZ the nursing shortage is bad enough that they will do a lot just to get you in the door....

Another thing, I talked to a recruiter and she told me to apply six months before I graduate if I want a specility area like ICU.

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again I would reccoment tech program. I just got hired as an extern in the CCU. It also makes the transition from student nurse to RN much smoother. Best of luck.

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Have you considered working as a tech/CNA on a CCU? Not only will they train you how to monitor rhythms, but you will be able to see how specific cardiac treatments, meds, caths, and stress tests coincide with those rhythms. I work on an ICU as a tech, and I love it! I just learned how to wedge a PA the other day, and A-lines and balloon pumps are a sinch to learn when you see them enough. Also, you will be a shoe in when they hire because you are already an employee. As far as EKGs go, "ekgs made incredibly easy" is a good book.

Another reason being an employee is beneficial is that even as a tech at most places, they will pay for your training for ACLS, and other cool classes!

Good Luck!

Hi....I was hired as a new grad in our ICU/CCU...It is a little hectic....and there is an awful lot to learn...but dont let others turn you away from it as a new grad. I had alot of nurses tell me I was crazy for going to critical care right out of nursing school...but if you have to learn...you can learn anywhere...even critical care...and nobody said that nursing was going to be easy!!!

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