CCU training programs at large/top hospitals?

Hey Snowbiggie

There is a thread a couple of weeks old in the "NEWS" section here about the Trauma Orientation at Mass General. It made it seem like the most exhaustive I have EVER heard of. It is essentially a link to a Boston Globe series of articles. If I have another choice--probably Johns Hopkins in Baltimore.

I should say, I have no connection to either program and only am going on reputation.

Good Luck,

I like your attitude,

Papaw John

Hey Snowbiggie

There is a thread a couple of weeks old in the "NEWS" section here about the Trauma Orientation at Mass General. It made it seem like the most exhaustive I have EVER heard of. It is essentially a link to a Boston Globe series of articles. If I have another choice--probably Johns Hopkins in Baltimore.

I should say, I have no connection to either program and only am going on reputation.

Good Luck,

I like your attitude,

Papaw John

I appreciate the response! I read the boston globe article on the making of an ICU nurse and it was interesting to say the least. Where are you currently working?

Hey Snowbiggie

I'm at the tail-end of my working life I hope. Down here in Fla with sailboat close by and thinking of soon reaching status of 'work 3months, sail the islands 3months'. It involves tapering off the adrenalin. I've chosen to work in what I sometimes gumpily call "Mom and Pop" hospitals--200 to 300 beds, one or two ICUs, 10 or 12 beds. Thinking I don't want the 'rush' of Level 1 places anymore, that if I retire and just 'dump' the fear and excitement--it'll be bad for me.

Sometimes I don't like it. Feel like I'm losing skills--dealing with 'nursing home' Pt population--MDs who think 'don't bother me now, I can fix it in the morning'.

I'd recommend a newbie in Critical Care go to the busiest Level 1, Referral Center they can find and learn as much as they can. It would probably take years. But it's what the ICU/CCU profession is all about.

Still groping my way thru life,

Papaw John

I dont know how far south you would consider, but UAB hospital in Birmingham has an RN Intern program for new grads. You can choose 4 units to work in, and then choose the one that is best for you. We have had some that graduated in May, have worked in CCU, MICU, SICU and ER. All of them except one chose our CCU.

UAB is a large teaching hospital. Tons of opportunities. You can go to http://www.uab.edu and check on the intern program under job openings.

Good luck in whatever you decide.

duke in NC.