ICU at Graduation

[bld24]

I just recently started my first semester. I started school with the intention of eventually working in an ICU. It just recently occured to me (duh) that there is no guarantee that I will get a job in ICU upon graduation. I understand that my goal may change over the next few years, or that my skills in the end may not warrent a starting position in ICU, if a job is even offered at this level to a new graduate.

Keeping all of that in mind, does anyone have any advice on strategies that would make me a more appealing ICU candidate at graduation? Are there things I can do, independent study, perhaps a tech job in an ICU, etc. that may help?

Thanks!

[Tweety, BSN, RN]

The tech job would definately be a plus as they will know you. If you can doing your final preceptorship there helps. Our hospital allows senior students to do preceptorships in ICU.

Good luck!

[Medwynn]

My best bet as Tweety has said was to find out if any local hospitals have an apprenticeship / preceptorship program. Sign up for ICU as your preferred site you want to work.

We have that program here as many of the students in the apprenticeship program go on to work at their preferred unit.

Due to the shortage of nurses on most units , i don't see why you won't be able to get a position at the ICU ..

Oh yeah if ICU isn't doing it for you .. why not try CVICU/CCU/CIC :)

[caliotter3]

I did my final clinical while in school at an ICU. One of the nurses who worked there did a 9 month preceptorship right out of school. It was her first job. She said she was very lucky to land the job. I noticed that she fit in with her co-workers very well and she gave every appearance of being a happy employee. I would suggest to look for ICU preceptorships. Start looking around now so you have an idea what is avail.

[Scrubz]

I too want to work ICU right out of school. Hopefully an ICU site will be a choice for me in my preceptorship. I just want to work in ICU becuase it can get really intense really fast. Plus I want to do CRNA eventually, so I'll need the ICU experience. I watched a CRNA paralyze and intubate a pt the other day and I just thought to myself, that's what I want to do!!