New Grads in ICU?

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I will be graduating in May of 2009 and have developed a passion for critical care. Our local hospital has hired new grads in the Intensive Care Unit, but some of the floor nurses suggest getting a couple of years experience before ICU nursing. The nurses that work in the ICU who were hired as new grads believe that jumping in to critical care was the best orientation for them. Does anyone have any suggestions?:heartbeat

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Specializes in MICU, SICU, CRRT,.

I cant tell you what would be best for you, but I believe, for me, ICU first is the only route to go. I graduated in December, took and passed boards a couple weeks ago, and just landed a job in ICU!!! I have no experience in a hospital, other than the time i spent in my clinicals and with my preceptor in SICU for my last semester. I was blessed the the hospital i really wanted to work for is very open in hiring new grads in their ICU, and i was a good fit for them. For me, I believe that will be a great orientation. If it is what you really want, go for it. If it is something you really are passionate about, and have the desire to do, you have already won half the battle. I dont believe you should settle fofr med surg just to get experience, if that is not what you really want to do. In my opinion, starting a job in an area you arent passionate about, will only lead you to despise your chosen career. Do not let anyone tell you what is best for you..the can only speak from their own experience, and yours may be different. Go for what you want, and do your best in that. That is all anyone can expect from you! Good luck!!!

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Thanks for your support and info.

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

Go right into ICU if you can. I did it (a long time ago, when the earth's crust was still cooling) and over the years, I have managed many 'transition' programs (residency, internship, etc) designed to bring new grads straight into the ICU. Make sure that you will be offered a 'formal' program - and that it is very clearly structured so you know exactly what expectations you will need to meet. You should have a dedicated preceptor and not be counted in staffing for the first month or two. Some key points:

  • This works better for people who are naturally assertive (NOT aggressive). You will need to be able to identify your own learning needs and take ownership for meeting them
  • High-Achievers fare best -- they are used to setting challenging goals for themselves & working hard to meet them
  • Be sure you are VERY well grounded in anatomy & physiology and pharmacology - critical thinking is a basic expectation.
  • Happy Learners fit in very well - ICU nurses aren't known for their patience but they react positively when the person they are trying to teach is very receptive and quick to grasp new ideas and concepts. Curiousity is encouraged - always ask 'why'

Go for it - keep us posted on your progress

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Thank you for sharing your experience. I hope that the ICU manager shares your convictions. I am so excited, but very humble. And as far as asking "why", how did you know that this has become my favorite word?

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