Career Outlook in my situation

Nurses General Nursing

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Specializes in Oncology.

Hey guys, I was accepted to a nurse internship program where we need to provide a 3 year commitment to the same unit. I accepted the offer and I do look forward to start working in the field of oncology because it does peak my interest considering the invasive procedures, complex treatments, and multi-system complications that may occur. However, I cannot deny that I still hold some interest in going into critical care/ EMed at some point in my career considering it is something that I loved during my practicum and clinicals.

My question is this, is oncology a seen as a positive on my resume by nurse managers when I start applying to critical care units and Emed departments later on in my career? I would consider so because of the constant monitoring and assessment that occurs with the administration of these chemotherapeutics and blood products. Furthermore, oncology patients aren't considered the most stable because of there blood and lab values. However I would like to hear your take on this matter. Any advice is appreciated.

Specializes in CCU, SICU, CVSICU, Precepting & Teaching.

I went from oncology to MICU. The MICU was excited to have me -- they hated the oncology patients and they figured I'd be delighted to take them.

Oncology was a really interesting specialty for me, and I loved my time there. But after five years, I began to burn out on it. My manager suggest a transfer to MICU, and it turned out to be a good fit for me. I found my new niche in critical care. You will learn so much in oncology, it's hard to see any downside to starting there. Three years is enough time to become really competent and start growing as a professional. I think it's a really smart move.

Specializes in Oncology.
I went from oncology to MICU. The MICU was excited to have me -- they hated the oncology patients and they figured I'd be delighted to take them.

Oncology was a really interesting specialty for me, and I loved my time there. But after five years, I began to burn out on it. My manager suggest a transfer to MICU, and it turned out to be a good fit for me. I found my new niche in critical care. You will learn so much in oncology, it's hard to see any downside to starting there. Three years is enough time to become really competent and start growing as a professional. I think it's a really smart move.

Thanks a lot for your advice! I truly appreciate it and will definitely look into the MICU once I start looking to applying to critical care areas. I'm fortunate that the nurses on my unit seem very pleasant so I look forward to leaning as much as possible! I'm glad you had a great experience their as well.

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