From OB to ED??

[meow2_RN]

So here is my issue... I currently working on a postpartum/newborn nsy unit. I have worked on my current unit for over a year. I would like to go back to grad school for NPWH and CNM or NP for ER soon. I have been thinking about if I was to stay at my current job what would I gain that would help me in grad school, yes working with postpartum pts would help ect. However I have been thinking about the ED. I have been thinking about all the exp I would gain from the ED that would make me an over all better clinical nurse as well as a better NP. A few things are causing me some concern... I am afraid I wont know everything to make it in the ED and the pace, the orientation process is 6 months. Also I currently love what I do now in postpartum but can see my self loving the ED, its just so hard to leave a place you like for the unknown. Have any advice?

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

There will definitely be a learning curve going from OB (narrow focus) to ER (where you see absolutely everything, including OB sometimes). However, a six month orientation sounds very reasonable and I would bet you would do well.

Besides it will help you decide if ER is for you prior to starting a grad program. Good luck.

[KittyK]

If ER interests you, I say go for it. I think it's better to check it out as a staff nurse before you make the grad school decision. I work mother/baby. We had a tech working for us who was a nursing student. After graduation she worked with us for a while then made the switch to ER. She really likes it, but still works for us occasionally as a PRN. Maybe you could talk to the ER manager or educator and arrange a day to shadow someone (on your own time) to see what you think.

And yes, it's hard to leave the familiar for the unknown. I've been a nurse for 30 years and am starting a new position on Monday as a full-time instructor in an ADN program!