Is working on a Med-Surg unit necessary?

[Alexxoxox]

Hello,

I am currently working as a CNA on a Med-Surg unit. I really dislike this job. So much so, that I have decided I never want to work as an RN on a Med-Surg. I am really fascinated with critical care, such as ER and Trauma. Is working as an RN on Med-Surg really necessary prior to working anywhere else as an RN?

[RNperdiem, RN]

Depending on the local job market, sometimes med-surg is the most likely place for a new grad to land a hospital job. When you become an official experienced nurse, all kinds of opportunities open up if you want to transfer.

[RNNPICU, BSN, RN]

OK i am curious: how do you get experience without starting off on med-surg?

Many hospitals have new grad programs. My new grad program in the PICU was 6 months long and I learned great assessment skills. I was able to focus on one patient, had time to learn all of the subtle signs and big signs of decompensation. I learned how to juggle multiple meds, how to coordinate many tests, etc, then I learned how to manage to critically ill patients.

Orientation programs prepare you for the area you will work. IN every field you will learn the assessment skills needed in whichever specialty you start, Med-surg has its own assessment skills unique to itself and will be great for Med-surg.

If you want an ED, you will learn skills specific to the ED, tasks for your specialty area just take time and practice.

I have seen new grades perform great and ones that did not do great. I have seen med-surg nurses transfer to the ICU and realize that it was too much and were not able to keep up with the pace and acuity, as well as those who were able to make the transition just fine.

Wherever you start you will learn skills, tasks, and assessments unique to your area. It will take time to develop a sense of your population and acuity changes.