Difference between ICU and intermediate critical care

Published

Specializes in Trauma/Surg, Home Care.

Hi everyone,

I am looking to become a CRNA, thus seraching for a job that would fulfill school's requirement for ICU. Can anyone clarify what is the difference between ICU and intermediate Critical Care? I am looking in particular at University of Penn Hospital.

Thank you!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in CVICU.

I would imagine that the intermediate care would be some sort of a step-down unit. It would probably have stable vent patients and maybe a few types of drips. Not sure if all CRNA schools would consider this critical care, but it's probably at least a good way to get your foot in the door if you're looking to transfer to the ICU in the future.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Agree that intermediate would be a "step-down unit." These pt's are often trachs and tube feeds at most hospitals (stable vents.) It is a good place to start to get comfortable with sick pts. I think all new grads should start in step down or floor nursing before moving into critical care just to get the basics 1st! (Some people would disagree with me I'm sure!) If you want to get into CRNA school I would even recommend CCU or CVICU vs ICU after getting some floor or step-down experence because they ask in CRNA interviews about experience with swans/IABPs and you typically get more experience with those in cardiac critical care. (My boyfriend is a CRNA and I am a CCU RN.) Good luck in your nursing endeavors!!! I hope you love being a nurse!:heartbeat

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in CVICU.
I think all new grads should start in step down or floor nursing before moving into critical care just to get the basics 1st! (Some people would disagree with me I'm sure!)

Yeah, I'm one of those "disagree" people :D I started in the CVICU as a new grad. Of course, I had worked as a tech in the trauma ICU and in the ER for 5 years before starting, so I was very familiar with most of the equipment. I also did my preceptorship in the trauma ICU. I did have a few "oh *$%&" moments when I first started because I had never worked with some of the equipment in the CVICU. Of course, this equipment isn't used on the floors for the most part.

I think this really just depends on the person and how much experience they've had as a tech. I've seen new grads struggle in the ICU, and most of the time the ones who struggle are the ones who have never worked in the hospital prior to graduation.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in critical care.

It depends on the hospital. Our IICU take everything but CRRT IABP and "brain drains" not just "stable vents and tube feeds. We do all the gtts, vents, procedures, etc so you should really ask.....

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Cardiac.
Yeah, I'm one of those "disagree" people :D

.

Me too!

And, Like you, I also had previous tech experience in an ICU. I'm doing just fine. In fact, I'm doing great in ICU!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Trauma/Surg, Home Care.

while i feel two hammer-blows here instead of the mouth of my child-federico garcia lorca

very interesting quotation. could you, please, explain the meaning to me? thank you!

p.s. i am sorry i am a little slow understanding it.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion