Peceptorship in Heart cath lab

[Optimistic_RN_]

I'm currently considering doing my preceptorship/ final practicum in the heart cath lab ,but i feel that it may be somewhat overwhelming due to not having extensive background in cardiac. I know that as a student I won't be expected to know everything , it would be highly appreciated if i could get some feedback on what skills to focus on and to hear from anyone else who did their preceptorship in the cath lab

[jamisaurus]

It's very difficult to get a job in the cath lab, at least in my location. Everyone wants their schedule! Ours requires 1+ years of ICU experience, or 2+ years of med/surg. In my opinion, it's very specialized and you won't get the chance to expand your skills, critical thinking, time management as an independent student.

Since you likely won't be working here has a new grad, you'll lose valuable opportunities to practice these things. I would do something more generalized, like ICU or med/surg if cath lab is your end goal.

Again, this is my location. It may be different in other regions.

[Lin23]

you get to pick which area to be in for your last semester of school? I would probably chose ICU if I were you. It would help with your critical thinking skills, and combine all your previous knowledge.

All cardiac cath labs require ICU experience.

I agree with previous post, med surg is a good place to start as a new grad.

good luck!

[Optimistic_RN_]

Yes , I get to choose which area i complete my final semester in, which actually makes the choice even harder. I agree with your opinions , due to it being so specialized and my lack there of experience , how ever I thought that it would be nice to get a feel for the area that I'm considering specializing in but i also know that i need to practice my basic skill set too which makes the decision hard to choose between ....(random ) are new grads often hired in the ICU or stepdown

[armyicurn]

Second what Lin23 said...