Any new grads that went into the ICU?

[KR]

Hello.

I am in the process of interviewing for a new grad into the ICU fellowship program. The hospital has 2 ICU. The program is 4-5 months long. We work with one nurse in the one unit for 20 hours a week, and work a different nurse in the other unit for 20 hours a week. We have the same two preceptors throughout the entire program. We attend a 120 hour Critical Care Class, 45hr Trauma class, a BAsic EKG class, and a ACLS class by the end of the program. I know there is a lot of controversy over new grads being in the ICU. This is really where I want to work. I work in a different hospitals ICU now as an assistant and I love it. I was just wondering if there was anyone out there that went through a similiar program to talk to. If anyone has I would appreciate a post or email. Thanks. Kim

[dka]

[Yup I was a new grad 10 years ago. I had a poor orientation but I read a lot. Took my CCRN 1 1/2 yr later and passed! I am now a manager of a 20 bed unit with 50 rns. Being a new grad is hard but if you are up to learning you will do fine. I found a great website from another nurse who wrote some info on critical care questions read it it will help. Think positive and study. if you get depressed find someone to lean on. Good Luck. Oh yeah the web address is

http://sites.netscape.net/chazakvamotz/icufaqs