How best to get a critical care job out of nursing school?

[soraji]

Hello all! I'm currently in the process of going through my BSN degree. I am an older student changing careers to nursing. I want to get into a Nurse Anesthetist program as soon as possible after my BSN completes which requires a minimum of 1 year of critical care experience. How easy/hard is it to land a first job in critical care and does anyone have any suggestions how best to get my foot in the door?

Thank you!

[llg, PhD, RN]

The best way to get a critical care RN job right after graduation is to work in one before you graduate. Work as a nursing assistant ... student extern ... unit secretary ... do your preceptorship in the ICU. People they already know and like tend to be the first ones looked at for any available new grad jobs.

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

Look for organizations that have a formal ICU transition program for new grads (e.g., residency, internship, etc.). They will be most likely to provide you with the specialized training and support to ensure your success.

[amb218, BSN, RN]

I agree with the first couple posters. Most residency programs hire internally first since they'll already know you and how well you work in high stress, fast-paced situations. ICUs tend to have high turnover rates due to burnout, nurses going back to school etc. From my experience, I wouldn't broadcast in your interview that you're planning on leaving after a year because that will just tell them you won't be a good investment for the unit. However, if they ask be honest. My residency program is 18 months long which we must complete and it's pretty frowned upon to leave before putting in 2 years. As you'll find out, orientation as a nurse in the ICU takes about a year. As for now though, I would definitely try to get as much ICU experience as you can before graduating.