med surg to icu ?

[Lightning Bug RN]

I am currentyl working on a med surg pre and post floor, and I am thinking about going to ICU. Has anyone else done this? How hard is it to make the transition ? Would it be better to go to telemetry first? My floor does have telemetry monitors but we have to transfer pts if our limited meds allowed to be given do not help with tachycardia/afib. or if their troponins are above a certain range. Thank you for your thoughts :smilecoffeecup:

[miracle1986]

Telemetry first would be a great move first. It is more intense in I.C.U. with fewer nurse - patient ratio....which you already know.... You will do great.:yelclap:

[AfloydRN, BSN, RN]

As an ER/ ICU RN, I would strongly suggest some Cardiac background. It makes it easier for YOU to take care of the patients. You will have a much better idea of whats going on and most importantly- why. It helps to be able to explain situations to patients and families as well. I'm not saying it can't be done, but for your own benefit- tele exp is best.

[Lacie, BSN, RN]

I believe that would be dependant on your facility. Do they give you a good orientation to ICU to include EKG classes, critical care classes, etc. Most hospitals I have worked at besides one small rural place gave these to all nurses entering into ICU. I also was given a good orientation after the classes in the ICU. I even took them when I was hired with experience in other hospitals as they are great refreshers. I went straight from nursing school into critical care and that was 24 years ago. If you like having a lower pt/ratio and like the energy level required then go for it. Personally it's nurses such as yourself I see as the brave ones that stick to a med/surg floor. I couldnt do it myself, hated it. But I loved Critical care. If you believe you'd enjoy that direction for your career then go for it.