New Grad ICU (No/Minimal Healthcare Experience)

[NewGradICUq, BSN]

For those who were accepted into an ICU new grad program with little to no healthcare experience, can you share your experience as a new grad in the ICU? What challenges did you face, and what helped you succeed? This discussion will be helpful for future and current nurses who are considering this path.

 

"How did you manage the learning curve and stress?”

"What advice would you give to someone applying to ICU without prior experience?”

[icuccurn]

I went into a level 2 trauma ICU/CCU straight out of nursing school. As you stated, the learning curve was very steep. Some people I started with didn't last. I have been here 1.5 yrs and have since obtained my CCRN. I managed the learning curve leaning on the "adults" of the unit. I asked many questions. I read all the Dr's notes to get a better understanding of my pts treatments/diagnosis. I watched ICU advantage on YouTube and used Barron's CCRN book not only for the exam but also to understand. As far as the stress, it does get to me but I do things I like outside of work and try not to bring it home with me. At the end of the day we're all doing our best and sometimes it's not good enough but not everyone can be saved— you can't take anything personal. I would advise current nursing students to work as a tech in the ICU and ask the nurses questions- make it known you want to work there as an RN. If it's too late for that, I would advise you to study outside of work.