PACU rn vs Float pool surgical nurse

[brownieyorkie3]

Hello,

I am looking for advice on two job positions i was offered. I am a new graduate with my BSN. I was offered a job in a residency program in the PACU, and then a new grad position in the float pool at a different hospital. the float pool position would rotate between 3-4 surgical post op units like ortho and general surgical patients. The PACU position is nights 3 12 hr shifts, while the float position is 5 days a week 8 hours rotating shifts.

I am not sure which position i should take. both are something that i am interested in....

any advice???

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

Moved to our PACU Nursing forum for more replies.

[Collor]

My first thought is surgical post-op position would give you great experience with surgical patients that you will take care of in PACU. Having said that, these two RN positions are very different. Med/surg vs critical care.

(IMHO): Being in a float pool you may miss the opportunity to really connect with a specific unit and the staff. Being at the hospital 5 days a week can feel like all you do is work. And rotating shifts can be downright exhausting.

Starting in PACU as a new grad will be tough but not impossible. Having a set unit is a plus. Having a set shift is also a plus. 12 hours can feel long (especially if you are having a bad day..)

I wish you the best in making a decision :-)

[azhiker96, BSN, RN]

I agree with Collor but would add a couple of items. First, make sure you have sufficient orientation. It should be several months and preferably with lots of patients. Secondly, make sure the other night nurse is strong. Most of the time it will only be you two when a patient starts crashing.