Published
I have voluntarily cross trained to other units, and have enjoyed the change of pace. But it was purely voluntary. It allowed me to be more employable when I was on a unit that had a wide variation in census. But due to low staffing, I haven't been floated to the areas recently - and those skills have gotten rusty. It is also a nice way to try other things.
Cross training has its pros and cons as with all things, but I think it's better to be trained in similar areas. I have worked in NICU for many years and used to get "pulled" to adult ICU, med-surg, etc. I was clueless about meds etc. but was expected to function as an RN. I was thrilled when we decided to become a closed unit. I don't get pulled anymore, but that also means when we get really busy we have to help ourselves so we now have mandatory on call days.
I cross-trained from an adult ortho surgery unit to Newborn Nursery and not by choice, either. Once in Newborn, I loved it, but longed for my old surgical patients.
I also cross-trained from adult neuro head trauma to pediatrics...again NOT by choice, but once on peds, I loved it!
I've worked in so many different aspects of inpatient nursing that I don't mind being cross-trained. The experience is good, the change of atmosphere and difference in patient care was good, and it made me a stronger nurse across the board. Cross-training can be a really good thing as long as the nurse being cross-trained is able to adapt to her/his new work environment. :)
Claire RN
3 Posts
I work in a PACU and have started to cross-train to ambulatory care, due to management mandate. How do others feel about this type of cross-training?