Pathway to the ICU

HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD · Jan 21, 2016

Point of clarification. The degree is in "Nursing" - there's no "Registered" until you pass NCLEX.

It is not unusual for larger facilities (that have the staff development resources to do so) to host new grad residencies for ICU. Yep, right out of school. I did it myself back when the earth's crust was cooling. It works out well if participants have the right qualifications and there is adequate support..... I'm living proof. IMO, ideal candidates for this type of program are students who: have a very good grasp of A&P, enjoy learning, can learn quickly & have a pretty high level of self-efficacy (taking initiative / responsibility for achieving their goals).

A more traditional route would be to begin in MedSurg-Tele and distinguish yourself by seeking out increasing levels of competence; caring for the most complex and challenging patients.... until an opportunity arises for you to transfer to a higher level of acuity. Some nurses go on to a step-down unit prior to moving into ICU.

Best of luck on launching your career and achieving your goals.

Ruby Vee, BSN · Jan 23, 2016

Just finishing the education to obtain a degree in registered nursing. I have a strong desire to one day work in the iICU setting. What's the best pathway to gain the experience and knowledge that will make me the best ICU nurse I can be?

The degree is in nursing. After passing the licensing exam, you may be registered, but the degree is not in "registered nursing."

Sometimes new graduates are hired directly into the ICU. Longevity in the specialty tends not to be very long among new nurses who take this route. Med/Surg is a way to get your feet wet in nursing without being overwhelmed by the more technical aspects of the ICU. In larger hospitals, there may also be a step-down unit or an IMC.

Work hard, learn as much as you can and be aware that everyone you meet on the job is a potential contact when it comes time to lobby for a transfer.

Leanneo · Feb 2, 2016

Yes, I see what you are saying, I am earning my degree in nursing in hopes of becoming a registered nurse one day. I look forward to the day I accept my first position which I anticipate being on the med/surg floors to gain experience. The pathway to the ICU (not iICU) is a distant goal. For now I am still discovering the multitude of areas to choose from in the profession. There's a ton! I was listening to a new nurse talk about home health nursing, not sure why anyone would want the autonomy that comes from being a home health nurse as a beginning nurse. I would be fearful. Perhaps there's enough field support I don't know.