How to get into the PACU as a new grad?

Nurses General Nursing

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Specializes in Medical/Surgical/Telemetry RN.

Is it possible to get into the PACU as a new grad? What residency programs allow new grads in the PACU in Washington and Oregon?

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Specializes in OR, Nursing Professional Development.

Generally speaking, PACU positions require critical care experience. You may find a small number that will take those with non-critical care experience and an even smaller number that would consider a new grad. My facility tried new grads. It did not work out.

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Specializes in Surgical, Home Infusions, HVU, PCU, Neuro.

PACU is a beast in itself, I would not recommend a new grad to start there, and you would probably have a heck of a time finding a place to hire one. The skills set and knowledge is something learned from experience. Have you thought about trying on a post OP surgical floor? This will at least give you a start on the many different surgeries, gain the respect of the surgeons and give you an idea of what to expect. Plus you can learn the PACU team which may give you an edge if a position opens to transfer.

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Specializes in ED, Pedi Vasc access, Paramedic serving 6 towns.

PACU is not a place for a new grad!! Please get some critical care experience in an ER or ICU first!

In my experience PACU positions also tend to be coveted in most hospitals, so the chances of them even interviewing a new grad are pretty low.

Annie

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Specializes in Medical/Surgical/Telemetry RN.

Thank you I will try doing that.

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Hospitals I've worked at require ICU experience. These are trauma centers though.

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Thank you I will try doing that.

I know you said WA or OR. However, Utah hires new graduates into the PACU. Even at the level 1 trauma centers. I can give you more info if you'd like just let me know.

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Specializes in Medical/Surgical/Telemetry RN.
I know you said WA or OR. However, Utah hires new graduates into the PACU. Even at the level 1 trauma centers. I can give you more info if you'd like just let me know.

Absolutley that would be great. Would love some more info on that! I appreciate it.

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Really bad idea. PACU nurses typically need a critical care background.

And I do want to add that i am typically not the type of nurse that would recommend med/surg for a new nurse, but PACU is the one unit that you really need to have your bearings before starting.

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Absolutley that would be great. Would love some more info on that! I appreciate it.

Sent PM.

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