changing departments

[gonzo1, ASN, RN]

I am getting weary of working in the ER for the last 7 years. What are my chances of transitioning to ICU and will they train an ER nurse.

What do I put on my resume as an objective. How does "Seeking entry into ICU to enhance my knowledge and pt skills"

All help is appreciated. I do live in a large city with multiple hospitals.

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

you should not have too much of a problem with the transition. The biggest thing will be that the ED does more focal assessments while ICU is head-to-toe and pretty frequent. I like the phrase you suggested for the resume. Personal growth is another good reason.

[Altra, BSN, RN]

Been there, done that, and I'm better for the experience. You shouldn't have too much difficulty. Good luck to you. :)

[somenurse]

When i first transitioned from E.R. to ICU, i asked to be cross-trained from the hospital i was currently working ER, to be able to float to ICU as needed. At the time, (long ago) the ICU was desperate enough for help, they agreed. I then floated, week by week, between ER and ICU, without losing the seniority i had acquired in that facility.

another option:

You also might consider applying to your hospital's acute-care float pool, and, after gaining experience and training in the multiple depts, if you do not love floating like i do, then, you could apply at next available ICU job, and the manager of ICU would already be familiar with you.

I myself don't completely understand why you'd have to change hospitals, to change units, but, it could be that your ER manager would not let you go to ICU, or would have discussion with HR or the ICU manager and discourage them from choosing you for the ICU position?