Published
All of my friends that I graduated with went to the depts that they wanted to go into. Whether it be PCU, neuro, med-surg, cardiac, a few to ICU, and 1 or 2 to the ED etc. What I have not seen though is new grads in cardiac rehab. The cardiac rehab nurses I have met are former ICU or cardiac stepdown nurses or ACLS instructors. That doesn't mean it's impossible, I just haven't seen it.
Achoo!, LPN
1,749 Posts
Hi all! I'll be graduating in December, and I am very interested in a cardiac rehab position that I found. I know that I don't have cardiac experience. I have worked in healthcare for 15 years, the last 10 at an Urgent Care facility where we do deal with cardiac emergencies. I have put on holters, done hundreds of EKG's, and did an externship on a cardiac unit. I have a 4.0 GPA, have earned several scholarships, I tutor, and help teach A&P lab. I have proven my willingness to go above and beyond, as well as my capability to learn if given the chance.
Is there any way I would be considered since I am a new grad? Do I HAVE to do a year of med/surg before I would be able to specialize in any department? Can I go straight to a specialty?
Thanks for your honest opinions.