New job decisions

[ATN1215]

I currently work as a paramedic in the emergency room where I do patient care, not just triage. I have applied for a job in this department to begin after graduation but I am wondering if I should try to get onto a medical/surgical floor to round out my experience. I love the ED and know that is where I want to end up but am I short changing myself the experience?

[jadelpn, LPN, EMT-B]

If you have a guaranteed job in the ER, and that is your goal, then I would go for it. You could choose to orient and float to M/S as you become comfortable/experienced in your career.

Being a Medic and being an RN is two entirely different things, and you may find that it will take a bit to get used to the role change. Which you may be experiencing if you are Medic on the field, and a Medic in the ER--even triage is a whole different thing. A nurse has a different theory that is put into practice a different way.

Depending on your ultimate goal, you may want to see about ICU experience as well. And this may require some time on M/S. Again, put in your time getting used to the RN role in the ER, then start talking about orienting/floating to other units.

Best wishes!

[ATN1215]

That is really good advice. I have been in the ED for 4 years and been able to practice the different nursing perspective along the way. As I approach graduation, my nurses are really pushing me harder and I am thrilled. I will keep my fingers crossed about the job. I find out around the beginning of November.

[jadelpn, LPN, EMT-B]

That is really good advice. I have been in the ED for 4 years and been able to practice the different nursing perspective along the way. As I approach graduation, my nurses are really pushing me harder and I am thrilled. I will keep my fingers crossed about the job. I find out around the beginning of November.

Awesome!! Keep us posted!