Moving from the OR to an ICU...(possible a thoracic ICU)

[calbrig1]

I graduated nursing school two years ago, I got a job in the OR right afterwards. I want to change jobs because I feel like my nursing skills are limited in the OR. I want to work in an ICU or possibly the ER. BUT I'm not sure if I can handle an ICU with no floor experience. Starting in the OR was difficult as a new grad but I learned quickly and I am comfortable with my role there. I'm nervous to switch but I really want to do more advanced nursing skills. So, should I try for a job in a ICU and deal with the learning curve that I'm sure I will have or should I try just a normal medsurg floor first and then eventually go to an ICU?? Please any advice or opinions would be greatly appreciated.

[AGACNPTX]

If the ICU you're interested in has a good orientation setup, you should be ok. Ours was a minimum of 12 weeks with some classroom time included. I started as a new grad with ER tech experience and I felt well prepared by the end of orientation. Of course you can't learn everything in 12 weeks, but if you have enough sense to ask questions/ask for help you should be ok. They start most new nurses on nights in our unit because the pace is a little slower (usually).

[lolakbolak]

I think you will be okay to go straight to the ICU. Many people don't think of this but OR is like critical care and you will get orientation so you should be ready