Moving from ER to ICU

[ccneug]

Hello. I am looking for some advice. I am currently a RN in a trauma center in Detroit. I would like to go on to further education as a CRNA. As a relatively new grad (graduated in may 08) I have work as an RN for about 7 months. I am thinking of moving come August and would like to switch to ICU/CCU. Any suggestions as to what type of intensive care environment would be best for my future plans? What about location? I would like to see something new... perhaps colorado? Any tips or insight would be greatly appreciated!

PS: i really enjoy the ER but am afraid that for CRNA school i need critical care experience which some schools dont consider ER to be.

:wink2:Thanks a lot

[perkizme]

Yes for CRNA you do need 1+ yrs ICU experience. Check with the schools you're interested in applying to for further ICU requirments- usu. schools will take any type of ICU and most recommend a surgical or cardiovascular type ICU. Check out the Pre-CRNA forums on this site for other helpful tips on pursuing CRNA (under advanced specialty). In a nutshell, you will need: GRE (usu score ~1000+), references, ICU experience, decent nsg school and science course grades, preferably CCRN certification and graduate courses (though these 2 are not required, they help as far as competitiveness). Shadow CRNAs if you havent already. I have 1.5yrs MICU and CCU experience before hitting CRNA school later this year (so surgical-type ICU is not required but many like to go this route). You will learn alot in critical care as far as drips, vent management, hemodynamics, etc (topics that you will dive futher into than the immediate assessments, treatments you're used to giving in the ED) - this is what CRNA schools want you to have experience with before starting.

[meandragonbrett]

With your background in trauma center, I would head to a Trauma ICU or Surgical ICU (if you are wanting to stay with traumatic injuries) Otherwise I'd work CVICU.