Nurse managers,help!Choosing unit type in new grad externships

[Dean7]

Hello there,

I was thinking maybe nurse managers or people who know what goes on in the thought processes of hiring managers might be able to help me with this? I'd really really appreciate it! I'm in NY state and almost finished with my program (it's an Associates program , but applying for RN-BSN programs). I have heard there are some new grad programs that accept students who have associate's degrees.

I am not sure what floor speciality to choose. There are options such as medical, surgical, ICU, PACU, step-down, ER. Ultimately, down the line, I feel like i'd fit best on an ICU floor. However, I know it's probably harder to get positions on an ICU floor (low turnover).

My main goal is to get a job soon. I've heard med/surg has higher turnover and you get to learn and practice a lot of skills and time management, so that would be an ideal floor. However, down the line, I want to eventually get myself working on an ICU floor.

So...for a new grad externship, should I choose a med/surg floor as my first choice for the externship, because having that experience might make me more hire-able? Or should I put an ICU floor as my first-choice, since it's what I eventually want down the road in my career (I like the low patient ratio and getting to know a few patients very well), and having ICU externship experience would make me (? I have no idea) just as equally or even more "hire-able" on a med-surg floor?

I have no idea what would be the best choice... Any insight from anyone would be great! Thanks so much everyone! This website is a blessing.

[llg, PhD, RN]

Great question. If the job market were better ... I'd recommend going for something ICU-ish to get that experience and get it on your resume for the long term.

However ... these are extraordinary times, and it may be difficult ffor you to find a job after graduation, particularly since you will only have an ADN. So, because of the current job market, I think you would probably be better off doing med/surg now and focusing on getting a good job as a new grad.

Good luck to you, whatever you decide.