How did you do it?

[mrigas]

I have recently started in a CVICU as a new nurse. The managers are quite reluctant to hiring new grads because of the high probablilty of them "doing their time" so that they can go to CRNA school. Needless to say, I have kept my hopes of getting into school to myself.

I realize that I have at least a year to go before beginning to apply as I have an 18 month contract to fulfil, but I would like to hear how other people have gone about getting good recommendations especially from their managers. Any other advice in dealing with coworkers, managers, etc. would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[Bobby D CRNA]

Hey,

I went from the ER to CVICU to a CRNA program.

The best way to get the references you are looking for is to do a good job caring for your patients. The CVICU is a different realm of nursing. Do diligence in developing your critical thinking.

Also, I would start developing a relationship with the anesthesia providers in the CVICU and let them know of your intentions. I am sure that after you demonstrate yourself on the unit, they might take an interest in your educational endeavours. In that way, they might be a good resource to you when you are ready to apply to your program.

Good luck !!!

Bobby D

[Dreamweaver2be]

I agree with the above post, do your best in regards to patient care, volunteer on committees, go above and beyond the call of duty, etc. Even when you do all of the above it can still be difficult; some critical care nurses can be cut throat and others will be really excited for you. I was actually surprised who wrote me the outsanding letters of reference and who wrote me mediocre to poor ones. Also for your letters of reference if you do not think your nurse manager will give you a good reference for whatever reason (I rarely ever see mine) think creatively--use a charge nurse, assistant manager, clinical nurse specialist, anyone who is over you or has "supervised" you.

It is a great idea to get to know your anesthesia providers, especially if CRNA's practice in your hospital. Even if they do not you can learn alot, but keep in mind there is a whole political world out there in regards to CRNA and MDA's. At the hospital I work at CRNA's do not practice. When I tried to befriend a few MDA's and told them my aspirations of becoming a CRNA I was given a very cold shoulder--just know the environment your working in.

[Excited_student]

I agree with Dreamweaver, your approach does depend on the politics of your hospital, what worked for me may not work for you.

Also - be loving being in the CVICU it's the greatest job in Nursing as far as I know (am a CRNA student presently), and hope to one day say it's the greatest job.

As for advice - In my CVICU we work very closely with Anesthesia - my letters of reference (after 3 years there) came from a CRNA, an Anesthesiologist, and the CV surgeon I had the best relationship with.

My reference letters came up during my interview, so I do think they helped.

Also my CVICU colleagues are dancing jigs they are so happy for me, as is my Director.:balloons:

Hope my 2 cents worth helps.