Nurses New Nurse
Published Jan 15, 2007
WinksRN
58 Posts
Which unit should I spend the next 2 yrs on? M/surg or tele or a year on both? I want to specialize in Critical care. i have 7 yr of LPn experience but in nsg homes. I am a new RN should I use this experience or start from scratch. I hated being a Nursing home nurse, I didnt feel like a professional at all, although the pay was irresistable but I am proof that Higher pay does not add to your professional esteem if you have no responsibility. Please Respond.:monkeydance:
SteveNNP, MSN, NP
1 Article; 2,512 Posts
If you are motivated to learn in a challenging environment, go straight to ICU. You don't HAVE to have experience in MS/tele, although it may be beneficial. If you can handle the huge increase in acuity that you're probably used to, and realize that you'll spend the next year getting comfortable in ICU, find a unit with a good orientation (12+weeks classroom and clinical) and go for it!
purple_rose_3
260 Posts
This is my personal opinion so please don't bash me for this. I would recommend tele d/t the fact that pt's are on tele monitors in the unit. I work on tele and we get a lot of med/surg pt. as well.
All_Smiles_RN
527 Posts
I would say tele as it will be more acute than m/s and less pts, thus better preparing you for transfer to the ICU. Oh, and get your ACLS as soon as you can. It made me feel much more confident in myself.
DeLynn, RN
190 Posts
How long do I have to wait until I get my ACLS? Is there a time requirement?