New grad, what to do before I start work

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Hi everyone. First of all i just want to say the I love this website.

I just found out today that I passed my NCLEX. I start as a new grad at the ICU on Aug. 25th. So I have a good 3.5weeks before I start orientation.

What do you guys suggest that I do to prepare my self. Suggested reading, what books to buy, websites, etc.

Thanks in advance.

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Specializes in Cardiac.

Congrats!

My suggestion would be to go out and enjoy yourself. See if you can toss in a short vacation or camping trip.

You'll have plenty of time to study when you start nursing and your critical care class. For now, enjoy your free time...

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Congrats!

My suggestion would be to go out and enjoy yourself. See if you can toss in a short vacation or camping trip.

You'll have plenty of time to study when you start nursing and your critical care class. For now, enjoy your free time...

Thanks for the advise! I'm actually booked to go to Cabo San Lucas the week before I start work. Its just that I've been studying for the NCLEX since I graduated and now that I passed, it feels weird doing nothing.

But you're right. I should cherish this time because once work starts, I'll for sure be doing a LOT of studying.

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Specializes in Cardiac.

Cabo? Now that's what I'm talking about!

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Specializes in Transplant/Surgical ICU.

Awh, a vacation. As someone else stated enjoy the time you have now, because soon you will have to work around a set schedule. Good luck with your new job. I start on tuesday, and I am sooo excited! Unlike you I could not afford to go on vacation, so I worked as an aide while waiting for the new grad program to begin.

In less than a week, I will be a practicing ICU nurse...

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Awh, a vacation. As someone else stated enjoy the time you have now, because soon you will have to work around a set schedule. Good luck with your new job. I start on tuesday, and I am sooo excited! Unlike you I could not afford to go on vacation, so I worked as an aide while waiting for the new grad program to begin.

In less than a week, I will be a practicing ICU nurse...

WOW!! I'm so excited for you. I'm soo excited to start and be a sponge but also very scared. Good luck!!

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Congrats!! That must be a great feeling to have passed NCLEX! Best of luck as an ICU nurse:wink2:

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Specializes in icu.

Congrats

Go and have a great vacation before you start.

Invest in some good critical care books.

The first six months, you will learn so much yoy feel like you are in nsg school again

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Specializes in ER/Critical Care.

Congrats on passing NCLEX! :yeah: What a great accomplishment! I agree with others about just enjoying your time off-and enjoy Cabo! (I'm totally jealous of that!)

I started into a CVICU as a new grad only a year ago, so I vividly remember where you are. Just remember to ask a LOT of questions (most people will respect that of you as a new grad), and absorb as much as you can at work. The 2 books that I found to be most helpful for me to start with were Critical Care Made Incredibly Easy (I know it sounds cheesy, but on somethings I just couldn't get at the bedside it broke it down for me) and The ICU Book by Paul Marino (more detail-I keep this one in my locker at work so when I get something random or unusual for our unit I can whip it out and share with co-workers). Anyway, I hope you find those helpful, and GOOD LUCK!!

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