just hired in ICU

PMHNP10 · Dec 29, 2003

Originally posted by txnurse2b
Hello. I am a new Grad recently hired to an ICU unit. I am really excited and nervous at the same time. My question to all of you is this, When I was interviewed, the nurse manager stated that another recent grad they hired is having a hard time. She also stated that not many of the nurses want to precept a new grad and the nurses are skeptical of new grads. This makes me feel a little wary of the position and wonder if I should check out other units or buck up the confidence and dive in. I have a willingness to learn and am very eager too. But wonder if that was a fair warning of negative things to come.... What do yall think? Anyway, it is nice to be here!! Thanks for any replies ahead of time.....

I will be the first one to say go for it, but I'm not so sure here. First let me ask what kind of internships this hospital offers--how long and what does it entail? Next, if the nurses there (who will be working with you) don't want to work with a new nurse, it sounds like a horrible environment. Also, where in TX are you?

EmeraldNYL, BSN, RN · Dec 29, 2003

There are ICU's out there that are open and welcoming to new grads. Go to one of those units instead. It sounds like you will just have a tough time here.

Yellow Rose RN · Dec 30, 2003

I will be the first one to say go for it, but I'm not so sure here. First let me ask what kind of internships this hospital offers--how long and what does it entail? Next, if the nurses there (who will be working with you) don't want to work with a new nurse, it sounds like a horrible environment. Also, where in TX are you?

Thanks so much for the opinion.... I am in West Texas. I am checking out another unit this week and will let yall know how that goes.

RNforLongTime · Dec 30, 2003

We use new grads in my ICU all the time. I've found that the ones that have worked in the unit as Aides do better than the ones that didn't. In fact we have two new GN's starting in January as well. This particular unit may not be the one for you though......Whatever you decide, I wish you good luck!

Kelly

kc ccurn · Jan 2, 2004

There are many new grads hired in to ICU, I was one of them 11 years ago. It's a huge learning curve but fun! Learn who your resources are, who can to go to ask questions, besides your preceptor of course. And give it time, it took me about 2 years to feel really comfortable-we are a multi specialty unit so we don't focus on just one system-neuro, surgical, etc. Good luck!

tsgarman, RN · Jan 5, 2004

I am also a recent grad and started working in an ICU in May. I love it! The staff has been very accepting of new grads. They hired 5 of us and we are all still there. I have to agree with what the others are saying. If this unit is not accepting of new grads, then you will have a hard time learning and taking care of your patients safely. There is a lot to learn in an ICU and I am still nervous at times when I get a new admit and not sure what to expect, but I have a wonderful team to work with who is willing to help with whatever I need. That is the main thing to remember when working in this type of environment.

Good luck with your new job!

IamRN · Jan 5, 2004

If you have the opportunity to join a hospital with an intensive internship then skip the job you are talking about.

The internship I went through was about four months long. It provided classroom and clinical time. Both of them essential!

Good luck!

kc_jellybean · Feb 9, 2004

txnurse2b - I hope you don't mind, but I sent you a PM. Thx!!

sweetpotato · Feb 21, 2004

There are many new grads hired in to ICU, I was one of them 11 years ago. It's a huge learning curve but fun! Learn who your resources are, who can to go to ask questions, besides your preceptor of course. And give it time, it took me about 2 years to feel really comfortable-we are a multi specialty unit so we don't focus on just one system-neuro, surgical, etc. Good luck!

Did you have experience as an aid or CNA before going to the ICU?