chosing a specialty

[DCCCRN2Bn05]

I am graduating in May, and I was wondering how you new grads decided on what field to choose. Right now I work in dialysis, but I am pretty sure I want to be a ICU/Cardiac nurse eventually. Are you all going for the suggested 6m-1year in med/surg or are you diving right into your specialty? I mean as new grads we have the world open to us, but I don't want to get into a specialty and either burn out or hate it. I feel the general would give me a better knowledge base, even though I'm not crazy about med/sug. I was just wondering what some of you all were going for.

[*PICURN*]

I graduated in December, and I am starting off right in the PICU...

Some people prefer the 6mo-1yr med-surg experience, but I think if you know what you want, you shouldn't feel like you HAVE to delay it, unless you feel you need it. :)

Its all up to you. Luckily I am starting somewhere where they have a 3 month orientation program, so I should feel well prepared.

[TexasCCRN]

Nursing is a profession right now that you can burn out in any area due to the way nursing is usually treated in the hospitals. If you really feel a calling to a specific area that you are passionate about go for it. I have been in ICU since I graduated in 2002 and did just fine. If you can do an internship or get a job as a tech in the area that you want to work in. It will let you get a feel of the unit. Good Luck

[LilRedRN1973]

I will be starting in the ICU upon graduation in May. I've been working in the ICU for over a year now in the Apprentice Nurse program so I have some experience. Currently, I am paired with an RN and do all the patient care, assessments, charting, some meds (can't do IV meds), etc. I will get a 3 week orientation, then I'm on my own (provided I pass my boards, of course).

I've been in 6 other areas of the hospital for clinicals ranging from OB to Neuro to Oncology. I am very happy in the ICU and now know I definitely want to stay there!!

Melanie = )