Float pool as a new grad? Any thoughts?

[xxdiscoxxheaven]

Hi all!

I applied to a float pool position designed for new grads at a level 1 trauma center in my areas. Any thought on floating as a new grad? I thought it was odd to not have a home unit when you are just starting out. They also require at least a 3.0 gpa to apply. I had a 3.4 so im good. What's that all about? I just need a job and am considering anywhere at this point! I want L&D but the manager of the floor insisted I get a year of med-surg within this organization first and then request a transfer. Any thoughts? I'd appreciate any input from seasoned floaters!

[annie.rn]

I could see it being doable provided you get adequate orientation. As the saying goes, what doesn't kill you makes to stronger. I'm sure you will get a lot of very good, diverse experience. I have worked float pools where it was wonderful. We did self scheduling so we knew in advance which floor we were going to and the nurses we would work with. I always chose shifts where I new the staff these floors were supportive of float personnel. Really nice to the float staff and appreciative of the help. I never felt like I was dumped on. Is there anyone you know in float pool now that you can get the scoop from? I would be proactive and get ACLS and rhythm interpretation before you start so you'll have a boost in confidence. It should be ok. Do your time and then move on to L&D. Have a great attitude! No complaining until you get into your car to drive home. If you are feeling panicked resist the urge to vent. Hit the bathroom, have your meltdown and then return to the floor bright eyed a bushy tailed (as my dad would say) even if you don't fel it on the inside. You only have to to bear with it a relatively short time.

Now, all the advice above doesn't meen don't ask for help if you don't know how to do something, Look it up first so you have the P&P in hand. Ask for help but say, "I've never done this procedure before but I have looked up the P&P on how to do it. I would feel better if I had an experienced nurse in the room w/ me for questions &/or moral support."

I think it will be a challenge but I think it will be doable and great experience when it's all over..

[canoehead, BSN, RN]

As a new grad I wouldn't recommend floating. Fair warning, I'm also against new grads starting in ICU or ER, but some do it and do a fantastic job. BUT...as a float nurse you're going from unit to unit, not having consistent coworkers, or patient problems, even the supplies are in different places. You need the support of your coworkers, if you have a question, who is good to ask, and if you make a mistake they will know you as a good nurse and be supportive. Lots of times float nurses get the tough patients because the regular staff need a break. Your first year can make or break your spirit as a nurse. I think you should set yourself up in the most supportive environment possible. Float pool just isn't it.

[NursesRmofun, ASN, RN]

I'm not crazy about a new grad floating, but, if they train you well, hopefully it will work. I floated for a while. Some days were great...I was extra on a unit such as psych and given a piece of cake assignment just doing checks and helping hand out trays...but other days I had the hardest assignments on med-surg. or ortho. But I had been a LPN for years on Oncology and then a RN on med-surg about 6 months before becoming a float.

[Been there,done that, ASN, RN]

FYI.. magnet means squat when it comes to respect and support for nursing. The fact that the only med-surg position they will offer confirms that. They will bring on new grads as long as they can jack you around to simplify the staffing problems.

A float position for a new grad is VERY difficult. I floated after 30 years and found it tricky.Albeit I had an 3 day orientation.

I understand we do what we need to do to find employment. If this is truly the only way you can get work, you must try. You would require a lengthy orientation to succeed.

Good luck, whatever you choose. Feel free to PM for support.