New Grad - Which unit is best to prepare me for my long-term goal?

Published

Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Hi Nurse Beth,

I graduated from nursing school last May and I had an interview yesterday at a hospital that has openings on several different kinds of units. I'm trying to determine what kind of unit my first job should be on if they do give me an offer. My long term goal is to be in mother-baby care, and nothing in that area is currently an option. However, there are openings in ICU, cardiac step-down, med-surg, and ortho-neuro. Which of these do you think might be my best bet for gaining experience that would be positively-viewed when I do apply to a mother-baby position?

Thank you!

Dear Which Unit is Best,

It's unusual to receive an open offer to several different nursing units, but if that is your good fortune, I would go with med-surg.

The reason is that it better prepares you for your long term goal of working in mother-baby care than do the specialties you mentioned.

You will learn how to care for several patients at a time, and gain broad clinical experience.

Keep in mind that any nursing job you are offered will get your foot in the door, and it's all good. You will have plenty of time to find your way to mother-baby if that is still your goal down the road. Many nurses find a new love” once they start nursing.

For the short term, just concentrate on the short term. Be the best nurse you can be, and once you are recognized for being a good nurse and employee, you will be able to transfer when the opportunity comes.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

nurse-beth-purple-logo.jpg

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion