Starting in a specialty vs. Med-Surg

Nurses Job Hunt

Published

Specializes in Cardiac Critical Care.

This is a question for seasoned nurses - do you think it's unreasonable for a new grad to start in a specialty, even with an internship & other training? I feel like I may be able to get a foot in the door in my chosen specialty (cardiovascular) but am wondering if I should get some solid Med-Surg foundation before jumping in with both feet. I work as a PCT on a Med-Surg floor right now so I've got a foot in there too. I'd love to hear some opinions!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

There are just too many variables to make any type of generalization. So much of the outcome depends on your unique situation & personality characteristics.

Many of us began our nursing careers in specialty areas (Neuro-Trauma ICU for me) and thrived.... others, not so much. But specialty units that hire new grads MUST have a 'welcoming' atmosphere along with a formal transition program that includes plenty of education and training as well as dedicated preceptors who understand the type of help that new grads need.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Geriatrics/family medicine.

Hi my first job was in a telemetry unit, not all were welcoming and the adminstrators had no idea I was a nurse and not an aide anymore. I got blamed for things even when I was never quite trained or prepared for certain things. Then again my first year of nursing was like my externship since I was unable to obtain one while still in school. I don't think we had enough exposure in clinical to be able to handle a speciality floor. I think if you have less exposure and no externships to really prepare you for how the floor can really be, you are better off starting in medsurg. I currently work in long term care, I have not been able to go back to acute care since my first stint there. I don't know if the hospital gave out bad references or what, but I will keep trying to get the best experience I can. However what matters most is that you enjoy what you are doing and do your best in it. All the best to you! May your luck be better than mine.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Cardiac Critical Care.

Thanks y'all! HouTx, very helpful. I do feel that most of the units in this hospital create a welcoming atmosphere for new hires (new grads or experienced nurses), and that there will be lots of education & good preceptors. I just wanted to make sure I wouldn't miss some essentials by beginning on a specialty unit. Others on this forum have brought up the point that there isn't the same opportunity to fine tune assessment skills when the first job is not Med-Surg.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ICU.

go for what will make you happy and what interest you the most.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Add a Comment