PICU or Pediatric CICU

[NICURN78]

This is my first post and I need some help. I plan on applying to CRNA school this fall. I have worked in a level III NICU for nearly 3 years at level where we take care of some seriously sick infants (vents, HFOV, ECMO, dialysis, hemodynamic reg, multiple drips/titirations etc...). I love the unit but I thought it might look better to expand my knowledge and switch units. I was very recently offered a position in both the Pediatric ICU and the Pediatric CICU. Our hospital is a trauma center and we see everything you can imagine in the PICU and the CICU manages any cardiac issue such as open heart, heart transplants, defects repair and disease management. I really want to make the best decision. I would like to know if the CICU or PICU would best benefit me for admission and preparation for CRNA school. Thanks for your help. I REALLY need it :)!!!

[seansanf120]

Buckeye-ICU,

I am also applying this fall for CRNA school, and I can only tell you what SRNAs have told me in my experience with them. They have all said that it doesn't matter what ICU you have as long as you have the one year minimum, which sounds like you have three already. You have already made the requirement and I don't think that moving to a PICU for a few months, and then having to ask the nurse manager for a LOR would be beneficial. It sounds like you already have a base knowledge with an extra skill set like ECMO, and HFOV. I have also been told not to worry about the type of ICU you have because they will teach you what you need to know to pass the board exam, and to be a safe competent CRNA. I would stay where you're at, and focus the next few months on fine tuning your resume, letter of intent, and establish your LOR instead of spending the summer learning in orientation about pediatric patients, because NICU should be just fine. Good luck to you!

seansanf120

[FLAreN]

Go whereever you are going to administer the most med drips. . .most likely CICU. Besides, it is an area you haven't tackled. Always better to expand your knowledge base. Good luck!!!