New grad in the OR?

It absolutely IS possible to get int the NICU as a new grad! That's how most NICU nurses start out.

Where in IL are you located? If you are anywhere near the Chicago area, you will find NUMEROUS hospitals that will hire you as a new grad into the NICU (or possibly the OR as well) and provide you with a lengthy orientation/internship program.

I'm willing to bet that your instructors have led you to believe that you must start out on a med/surg unit. If so, I have one work for them....AARRGGHH!!

Good luck to you as you graduate and start your new career!

Jolie! You are absolutely righ- my instructors have said million times - you need to start as a med/surg nurse, then you can transfer anywhere you want. ( something like "..before you work a specialty - you need to experience what nursing is all about..). You know.. I can't believe I fell for that. Thatnk you so much for a boost! I live in Joliet right now, but will be buying a house somewhere else. Chicago is too far for me, but suburban hospitals such as Edwards, Palos, Hinsdale and others are not too far. Now I can look more into it.. Thanks again! :thankya:

Jolie! You are absolutely righ- my instructors have said million times - you need to start as a med/surg nurse, then you can transfer anywhere you want. ( something like "..before you work a specialty - you need to experience what nursing is all about..). You know.. I can't believe I fell for that. Thatnk you so much for a boost! I live in Joliet right now, but will be buying a house somewhere else. Chicago is too far for me, but suburban hospitals such as Edwards, Palos, Hinsdale and others are not too far. Now I can look more into it.. Thanks again! :thankya:

We must have been neighbors :). I left the Joliet area last year and moved out of state. I agree, that is too far of a drive into the city, but you could check into Rush-Copley, Edwards, Good Samaritan, Hinsdale, and Hope Children's (Christ) Hospital. I believe they all have Level III NICUs, which is the best place to start.

Don't fall for the old (well-meaning, but ill-advised) notion that med/surg is necessary preparation for all specialties. If it interests you, then by all means, do it! If not, don't! Starting a nursing career is challenging enough without caring for a population of patients that does not fascinate you.

God luck!