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Discussion

OR to ICU

Hi all, 

I need some advice. I have worked in the operating room since graduating from nursing school two years ago. I have no other nursing experience and have been considering challenging myself by applying to the ICU. It is a new to specialty program which would hopefully have more training involved. I have an interview set up but am unsure if this is the right decision. I love the OR but as you may know, I don't use ideal bedside nursing skills. Since becoming a nurse, I have always felt the need to learn critical care to feel confident in patient care. If hired, I plan to work per diem in the OR in the event I want to go back. I understand this is a HUGE change and will be extremely challenging. I don't know what kind of nurse I want to be and am afraid I am going to regret my decision to leave the OR.

I guess I'm just looking to hear if anyone has transitioned to the ICU without bedside experience and if you regret your decision. 

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    I worked in a mixed medical and surgical ICU when I graduated nursing, and absolutely loved working in critical care. With that being said, ICU has a high burnout rate and I found myself burned out after a few years. ICU is often physically and mentally exhausting, requiring you to practice good mental hygiene, develop appropriate coping mechanisms, and setting boundaries with patients, families, and the unit. 

    I don't think you should discount your experience as an OR nurse, it's not that you lost or didn't use "traditional" nursing skills; you gained and developed a specific set of skills and assessments necessary for your specialty. 

    It is important that we understand that no single specialty is better or above another. The beauty of nursing is that we can transition in and out of various roles as our lives change. Only you can truly decide what is best for yourself, I wish you luck in whatever path you choose. 

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