I'm coming to MSICU!!

Hoozdo, ADN · May 11, 2006

Well, I graduate this Thurdsay and start in MSICU on June 12th (My critical care class starts then). I'm so excited! I originally thought I wanted to be a CVICU nurse, but when I did my preceptorship there I found out that I was completely bored! I have worked for the last 10 years in a CVICU (as a tech), so me not liking it was a complete shock!
Anyway, I'm now going to a MSICU and I was wondering what you guys thought would be the best thing for me to know before hand. I already have a hemodynamics book, I have the fast facts book by Kathy White, and I have lots of skills down due to being a tech in the ICU (foleys, IVs, etc).
What should I do to prepare! I don't want to let my work down!

Congrats my fellow Arizonan :mortarboard: :smiley_aa

You will be way ahead of the game for a new grad due to your tech experience. Study up on your ACLS protocols and drugs that you need to grab in a hurry for intubation or procedures like central line insertions. Notice where all the supplies are for any emergent procedure you need to assist with so when it happens you are not searching helplessly for stuff. I think you will enjoy the MSICU!

nicolentony · May 12, 2006

Study the commonly used drips. Learn your defibrillator and code cart. Know how to find supplies in a hurry. (Central line/aline kits/ chest tubes, etc.)

Contgratulations! You're gonna love it! :nurse:

cardiacRN2006, ADN, RN · May 12, 2006

Study the commonly used drips. Learn your defibrillator and code cart. Know how to find supplies in a hurry. (Central line/aline kits/ chest tubes, etc.)
Contgratulations! You're gonna love it!

Yes! I did always get confused when titrating. Some meds titrated by cc's some by mcgs.. How long does it normally take to remember all the med stuff??

dorimar, BSN, RN · May 21, 2006

hey cardiac,

I think you will find MSICU much more interesting. CVICU is kind of cookie cutter, I hear. You will see a little bit of everything. best place to get your skills honed. Where in AZ will you be working? Just curious as I am in AZ as well. won't be insulted though if you don't want to divulge.

cardiacRN2006, ADN, RN · May 21, 2006

I had to think back to my last few hundred posts and see if I said anything incriminating! I live in Tucson, and will work at a smaller hospital on the south side. I call it Tucson's best kept secret! My orientation will be 6 months long and I start my CC Class in June. Can't wait!