Practicum in Emergency Nursing? Good choice or not?

[RNbethy]

Hi, I'm in the process of choosing a final practicum and am interested in emergency or intensive care, but I'm not sure if these are logical choices for me or not.

Some things about me: I love physiology and research. I'm also passionate about psychology, although I think I would benefit most from a placement that allows me to use my skills. I've enjoyed clinicals such as Cardiac that incorporate more physiology. I did not enjoy med surg so much as this was more about procedural knowledge (types of surgery, etc) and didn't fulfill my interest in physio as much. Unfortunately, I feel that I should be an expert in everything, which makes it hard when I go to do a skill for the first time and feel so amateurish...I have felt a huge lack of confidence and a huge fear in caring for patients. However, I've been gaining more and more confidence on the cardiac unit and feel that with time I will be a confident nurse. I would love to do my practicum in the ER but fear that I won't be able to think on my feet? Perhaps I will panic with the instability of patients?However, my GPA is > 3.7, and I don't think I should run from an ER experience because of "fear." The ER would probably be very rewarding! Unfortunately, I have not had the time to work as an undergrad with family commitments and other things going on in my life.

Based on my strengths and weaknesses, do you think an ER or ICU practicum makes sense? Or should I choose something with a slower pace?

[whichone'spink, BSN, RN]

For all the psychomotor skills that you may feel weak in (i.e. IV insertions, foley catheter insertions, even NG tubes), the ED would be a good place. But the pace can be crazy fast. If you like adrenalin rushes, then it might be good for you. But if you like to get to know the patients you take care of while still being exposed to a lot of pathophysiology, I think the ICU would be better. I am completing a practicum in the ED, an ED where I actually work. I am much better at IV insertions that I have ever been, but at the same time, I feel like I don't have a decent understanding of my patients and what is going on with them. Everything is rushed in the ED; treat 'em and street 'em. I sort of wish I was in the ICU for my practicum. I won't complain though. A lot of people are having a hard time being placed, and I didn't because I am known in the ED.

[BostonTerrierLover, BSN, RN]

Lol, if you like Psychology, your going to "Love" the ER! There are more Psychiatric Patients coming through there in a day- than most Psych Wards I have seen.

As far as panic- you want be alone, and no ones going to let you jump in the deep end. Also, I think when you see how calm the staff can be when everything is going crazy, it will calm you as well. Thinking on your feet comes with time, and being afraid is a huge mental block. I think EVERYONE in ER is the most afraid before they enter it, (imagination) Once you get there, and start, it's okay- and not everyday is an adrenaline ride. Some ED days are so long and boring, and others you may not stop.

Just saying, I was terrified of ER before I went, but now it's my niche.