How to prepare for new grad ICU position

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I would like to start studying and learning as much as I can before I start my new position in a med surg ICU. I will also be required to float to trauma and neuro ICU if the need arises or a step down unit although med surg ICU will be my home.

Do any of you have any recommendations in books I should read besides my text books or areas I should really focus on? I will have 4 weeks of critical care classes and 4 weeks with a preceptor but really want to be as prepared as possible to keep my patients and my licence safe.

Thanks!

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Specializes in CVOR, CVICU/CTICU, CCRN-CMC-CSC.

I'm in a similar position, so I'm going to mooch onto your thread, OP! :bag:

I did ask during my interviews for Cardiac ICU and Level 1 Trauma ER positions what certifications the nurse managers would recommend me preparing for if I was hired. ICU said that in addition to ACLS/BLS/PALS (which I already have), I should look into getting the CCRN cert. I'm using the AACN's CCRN study guide for that. Trauma said to get the CEN and ABLS in addition to my other current certs (ENPC/STABLE). I'll be taking the ABLS over the summer.

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Specializes in MICU, SICU, CICU.

Go to the AACN website. Review the practice alerts. There is a very interesting and informative section called "Ask the Experts" It may require a membership.

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I read index. Lots of free word docs for pretty much anything you'll face.

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Specializes in Critical Care, Med-Surg.
I read index. Lots of free word docs for pretty much anything you'll face.

I second this, and have been reading a recommending Mark Hammerschmidt's page for years (even before I became a nurse - when working as PCT/secretary in the ICU).

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Thanks everyone once I pass Nclex I will definitely take these suggestions. I would like to have a head start as I know it's going to be overwhelming.

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