Med/Surg to ICU

[rachel h, BSN, RN]

What is the transition from Med/Surg to ICU like? I am very interested in critical care nursing and I have a year of med/surg experience now. I was just wondering if it is very intimidating/ overwhelming? Do you feel like you are brand new all over again or does it help to have that med/surg experience? Thanks!

[MandyInMS]

Med/surg is great experience...you learn to 'do it all' and how to manage your time/skills..just make sure you have a proper orientation period with an experienced ICU nurse and you should do just fine :) good luck (((hugzzz)))

[Zee_RN, BSN, RN]

If you feel quite strong in Med-surg and have good organization and prioritizing skills, and a cool head, you can be a good ICU nurse. A knowledgeable and compassionate preceptor is a must!

I made the move from Med-Surg to ICU over three years ago; I love critical care. I had been in Med-surg about three years.

Can you shadow a nurse in ICU before making a decision? See if you can shadow a nurse for a couple of shifts and get an idea of what it is like. Every unit has its own "personality;" check out your hospital's ICU and see if it's a fit.