New Grad in PICU

nicurn5a · Aug 24, 2012

I'm so excited! I was just offered a position in the PICU. This will be my first job with my career change. I have always wanted to be in Peds, but was a little discouraged when I heard stories that new grads are generally not accepted. I thought for sure I would have to do my time in another department before moving to where I really wanted to be. Well my dream has come true! I'm so thrilled to be apart of this specality of nurses. If anyone can give me some advice or words of wisdom it would be greatly appreciated!!

Don't forget to get some books to read over your chosen field. Nursing books are especially helpful in focusing your learning. And don't fret over not getting it quickly, you will BEGIN to feel comfortable after a year minimum. You will make mistakes and if you are not sure over anything at all, ASK a question. DON"T assume anything. Write down your tips and trick for doing procedures and print off your policies to keep them in a 3 ring binder (for referral back to when in doubt!) Now take a deep breath and head to work! Congrats on the new job!

Hillarienic · Aug 24, 2012

That is great advice, thank you. My aunt was making a similar point with the SOP's. Thank you.

Rosenhammer · Aug 24, 2012

Good for you! Congratulations and good luck!

rnsoccermom · Aug 25, 2012

I was a new grad in the PICU, and it is definitely my first love. First you have to know that it is unlike anything you ever did in nursing school, so be prepared for a steep learning curve...there was many days I went home in tears overwhelmed in the first few months. It will take about a year to feel comfortable on your own. Definitely review your math on weight based med/gtt calculations until you can do it in your head. Ask lots of questions, don't do it unless you can. Also "Fake it til you make it". Parents can't stand a nurse who seem unsure of themselves, so exude confidence even if you don't feel it. Also really think about how you are going to feel the first time you see a child die, and have to comfort the family. That was something I never really sat down and thought through, and it really got me. I cried everyday day for a week on my way to work, and to this day I can still remeber that baby's name and face. So don't be afraid to talk about it, seek out a religious figure, or EAP at work if you need to. It will never get easy, but easier to cope.

I could go on and on, but you will be fine. It is an amazing specialty and no doubt you will love it. :redbeathe:nurse:

Hillarienic · Aug 28, 2012

Great advice...thank you.

PedsCVRN · Sep 11, 2012

I am also a new grad working in an ICU. My best advice would be to ASK ANY and ALL questions. Don't assume you know and most definately admit when you are unsure. I found that asking my preceptors to let me tell them what I know about a subject and have them 'fill in the blanks' on things I missed or things I was not correct on. It allowed me to show what I did know without feeling or looking arrogant and gave my preceptor a chance to share what they knew. Good luck - you'll do great!