Different Departments

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Hi,

I am currently in school trying to take pre-req's to get into nursing school.

Question: I was told that in a hospital there are so many departments a nurse can work in. Do you choose where you want to work or once you graduate are you automatically put where you are placed.

Also, what is the grossest department to work in (I mean cleaning poopoo and that nasty stuff), and what is the best department, in your opinions?

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Specializes in Hospital Education Coordinator.

Sorry, but they are all gross at times. If that is a big issue, consider something else besides nursing.

When you graduate your first assignment will be pretty much where they have space for a new grad. Can't have a floor full of new people all at the same time. However, many places offer you choices. If you have the opportunity to work as CNA or nurse extern, that would give you some idea of the hospital culture. The good news is, after you are hired you will be able to transfer to another dept. after a given length of time. Thru out your career you can change roles. That is what is so positive about nursing.

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"grossest" would be units where the patients are very dependent, sick, and unable to ambulate - probably units like rehab, neuro, medicine, oncology

"cleanest" units would be psych (but, you can get some pretty gross patients who like to smear feces and sperm on the walls and linens), post-partum, labour and delivery, clinics

you can pick and choose but not all units will be open to accepting new grads. you'll just have to check the hospital listings and apply for whichever units want ya!

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When it comes to 'gross', poop is the least of your worries :lol2:

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Oh, and when it comes to which department is the best to work for, it all depends on your manager, your charge nurse, and your co-workers.

Working with a supportive and understanding manager who is invested in helping you is key. A good charge nurse will make or break your experience. Your co-workers are essential in creating a positive and welcoming environment.

It isn't really about the department it is more about the people.

But, they say labour and delivery and post-partum tend to be the happier units. People rarely die and it is usually a happy time!

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Specializes in Oncology, Research.

Yeah, poop is everywhere. I can handle that. What I dislike are trached patients who like to aim for you with their pseudomonas leaden sputum.

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