I need some advice. I am a new nurse. I have the ultimate goal of working in pediatrics. I've really, really pushed to get my foot in the door at the hospital in the area that is known for pediatrics there but it's so tough as an associates degree nurse, even though I'm starting my BS in May at a school that is affiliated with the hospital. In the mean time, I've been applying at another hospital. I got all 4 offers that I interviewed for. The cardiac unit, which was my number one choice, does not have the money to hire me right now (or anyone). The other floors are general medicine, orthopedics, and acute stroke and rehab. I've eliminated general medicine...so i am down to ortho and stroke. I'm having the hardest time deciding. I have to tell her my decision today. Which is the best decision for a new nurse?
Orthopedic floor description: 37 beds. Surgical patients include hip and joint replacement, orthopedic trauma, GYN, and some non-ortho and medical patients. (this floor is technically the overflow ICU floor)
Acute Stroke and Rehab: 25 beds. Combined unit that specializes in the care of the acute stroke patient and other neurological disorders as well as focuses on intense, short-term physical, occupational, and/or speech therapy for adult patients. Patient population may include stroke patients, amputees, or de-conditioned patients. (new grads stay on the acute side of the floor)
I'm in NY. My peers are either in the same boat as I am (although I've had the most offers I've heard of so far... But they are getting 1-2 offers) or can't find anything at all. We graduated in December and I started applying early. The local hospitals are also trying to provide more opportunities for December graduates. I live close to 4 hospitals.
Acute stroke is about as far from peds as you can get, but I disagree that you won't get much in the way of transferrable skills there. The population will likely have many comorbidities, and you will learn a tremendous amount about labs, diagnostics, meds, and family dynamics.
I reiterate: Flip a coin, or, failing that, go for the one that gives you the best schedule.
Both are in a acute care setting. I agree with a flip of the coin. It really depends on the unit (quality management), since each one has benefits to becoming a experienced nurse.
Shame they offered you a job on the cardiac unit, but can't hire you…..strange.
Eroc... The cardiac unit nurse manager told me she was going to offer me a job ( wasn't an official offer). She set up my interview the day before they told her she might not be able to hire. I got word she was officially unable to a few days after my interview.
kelly22790
9 Posts
Thanks everyone! I will post when I make the decision today :)