How did you choose your specialty?

Hi... as a new grad its important to consolidate your new knowledge and put it into practice. To work for a time in medical and surgical areas before you try to specialise is a great help in making you aware of the "big picture" in nursing.. that is a holistic outlook which will follow you into your chosen special area.

I'v worked for 20 years in nursing and now work in the recovery unit..every day I access remembered events from my time to treat patients in the acute area. Assessment is crucial in nursing and to provide a 'benchmark ' to base your assessment on, it helps heaps to have seen as much as you can, and med/surg nursing provides this exposure.

Good luck, Margy

I agree with Margy...it would be best if you are able to get a position on a general medical/surgical floor. This way, you will be exposed to caring for all kinds of patients, and like most people, will find that you prefer to care for a certain group of patients, ie, cardiac, respiratory, post-surgical, etc. I would recommend staying at least 1-1 1/2 years in your first position. From there you can try to gain experience in the area that interests you. That's one of the good things about nursing...there are many opportunities and many specialties. You'll find your niche, just give it time. Best of luck to you!

Laurie, RN

Medical CCU

At this time I am working as an MDS Coorindinator. Did I plan on this? NO!! But from the various experience that I have had in the last 4 years, this is where I am now. My original plans were to be psych or OB or OR. Have I ever been in that position? No!! I have been hospital Med-Surg (Acute Care), Step down from ICU, MR/DD facility, then I went into LTC, from SNF to Unit Manager, to MDS Coordinator in the same facility. Makes me wonder what's next!!!!!