ED experience in addition to ICU?

[elephantlover, BSN, RN]

I am currently a RN in a med-surg adult ICU with two years of experience. I get a nice mix of medical, neuro, trauma, and other various surgical specialties on my unit. My five-year plan involves applying to nurse anesthesia programs. I plan to continue gaining experience in my current unit for a few more years before applying to schools.

I have learned so much in the ICU, but I wonder if I am missing out on certain competencies. I am curious if finding a part-time position in the ED would be worth it to help round out my experience and better prepare for school. I feel like ED would give me more opportunities to start peripheral lines under pressure, learn about pediatrics and maternity, and sharpen my rapid assessment skills. I know of a few nurses who split their time between ICU and ED.

I understand that ED is a very specialized department and takes a real-time commitment to become a proficient ED nurse. I am not under the impression I can just casually moonlight in emergency care-- it would really be an investment. Any thoughts on if this is feasible or worth the time commitment? Thanks for the read. 

[loveanesthesia]

I think it’s a great idea! Probably because that’s what I did. Experience in a level 1 trauma ER is a good growth opportunity. Some anesthesia programs will want to see current ICU experience, so for greater flexibility keep a FT ICU position.