How early is too early to apply to a nurse residency program?

[ICUMurse21]

Hey everyone!

I'm a senior nursing student that will be graduating in December. I am wanting to do a residency program in the MICU at a specific hospital. The way they do their residency is that you can apply to any open position of interest. I have my foot in the door with this hospital already through a Summer internship program at one of their different campuses. Anyway, the perfect job I want just opened up, and it's been open since February. The job posting is listed as: "RN Staff (Multiple MICU openings)." This is a position that I really want, but was wondering if it would be too early to apply? What is your opinion on this? Thanks so much!

 

[203bravo, MSN, APRN]

It's probably a bit early to apply for a staff RN at this point as they are in need of someone now and probably not ready to hold a position open  until December... but it's worth contacting the Director and letting them know about your interest in the department following graduation.

If the facility does have a formal residency program, these generally open at very specific times and once they are open then you are welcome to apply at that time as they know when you be graduating. 

[peach2218, CNA]

I graduate in December too, and the hospital I'm working at as an aide right now doesn't open up applications for March 2022 residency until October. November, for non-employees. 

[soon2beRN2021, ADN]

Hey! 

So, this is almost identical to my situation. I graduated from my ADN program this Spring 2021. Prior to that, I started as a CNA within the hospital staffing office/float pool that prior Fall 2020. At our hospital, few specialties open new grads--specifically the critical care units (L&D, ICU). This being said, have you talked with your New Grad Residency coordinator to see if they allow ICU openings to New RNs? I ask, as my hospital is very picky (Level 2 Trauma Center), since it does include higher level skill due to increased acuity of the patient. 

In regards to timing, I would ask the coordinator when applications for whatever cohort (Jan/Feb 2021 cohort) open up, and I'd apply during that time. You have to remember, while you graduate in Dec, you still have to take the NCLEX prior to hitting the floor.

It is possible! I was 1 out of 2 New Grads to get a MICU position! Critical care is highly sought after and I believe they stated over 60 something students who were not aides wanted the position. The good thing is most hospitals don't require ACLS for up to 6 months-1 year, unless you are going to be an ER RN.  And, I am sure they will prioritize you over other new grads who are not affiliated with the hospital. I hope your hospital allows you to filter into that position ? I will say that there were no "MICU opening" positions when I applied, but stating preference and having a good interview placed me there! So, don't fret if the app is gone, just express your desire! 

Good luck!!