I just got a job in the PICU as a student

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Specializes in Adolescent Psych, PICU.

I just landed a job in the PICU as a nursing student. I will be working two 12 hour shifts a week in the summer and then once a week during my senior year. My new manager said they set it up like a preceptorship where I will be working one on one with a PICU nurse learning assessment and all sorts of skills, charting, etc. I plan to work there when I graduate next year. I'm very excited! This is at a teaching hospital.

Any tips for me?

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Specializes in NICU, PICU, PCVICU and peds oncology.

Congratulations and welcome to the challenging world of pediatric intensive care. Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way over the next year; remember that you are there as a student and are not to be considered "staff". There are lots of similar threads on this forum with tips and secrets for survival. Here are a few.

https://allnurses.com/forums/f95/new-picu-198029.html

https://allnurses.com/forums/f95/where-do-i-start-211869.html

https://allnurses.com/forums/f95/did-i-make-right-decision-209108.html

https://allnurses.com/forums/f95/new-picu-nurse-210125.html

https://allnurses.com/forums/f95/applying-picu-job-203342.html

Have fun, learn a ton and be well.

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Specializes in Adolescent Psych, PICU.

Thanks :)

I wasn't sure what you meant by me not being staff though? Do you mean not an RN? I am considered to be on staff since I'm an employee, but certainly not an RN.

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Specializes in NICU, PICU, PCVICU and peds oncology.

My mistake. But my advice still stands.:lol2: Don't let them include you in their staffing numbers!!! You're there to learn, not to prop them up when they're short-handed.

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Specializes in Adolescent Psych, PICU.
My mistake. But my advice still stands.:lol2: Don't let them include you in their staffing numbers!!! You're there to learn, not to prop them up when they're short-handed.

Absolutely good advice and I see where you are coming from! Ya, I wouldn't be much of a prop ;)

I've been reading through this forum and you have such good insight and experience about the PICU Jan thanks.

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Specializes in NICU, PICU, PCVICU and peds oncology.

You're welcome! My pleasure.

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