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The format of my interview with the SICU was that of a peer interview. I am blessed and excited to start orientation on Monday. I liked the format of a peer interview because it seemed less formal and more comfortable. They asked me questions regarding hypothetical situations that I might face as a nurse. What would you do? How would you react? etc. The hypotheticals involved ethical/moral dilemmas, scope of practice, and HIPAA. As a new grad, you have a fresh grasp on theory and textbook knowledge, but you lack the real world experience. The interviewers KNOW THIS!! They don't expect you to know everything, so don't stress yourself out. They just want to get a feeling of where your head is at, your character, are you quick on your feet?, can you take your knowledge and practically apply it clinically? etc. Answer the questions honestly and to the best of your ability, but don't BS. Saying less is often better than rambling on. You must be confident, but you also need to be humble. There is much to be learned from the experienced nurses, utilize your resources! Interact with the interviewers and ask them questions, this breaks the formality and keeps things conversational. Focused but comfortable. Don't just speak when you are asked a question. This demonstrates that you are outgoing and eager to learn, that you can function efficiently under pressure and in a dynamic environment. Lack of practical experience, naivete, makes finding a job as a new grad difficult. Factor in the economy and a relatively over saturated job market for RNs, and you decrease your odds of landing that job. The only way to compete with the other prospects that have experience, is to sale yourself. That's all you have. Sale your character and values, your personality, but be genuine. BE YOURSELF. I know you hear that all the time, but it's only because it's true. Give yourself the advantage by setting yourself apart from the competition. With all due respect, I don't necessarily agree with smileymimi. This is just my perception, but there is no way to prepare for what they might ask. It doesn't even matter. You have all of your knowledge from nursing school to draw from and you know right from wrong. I'm a new grad myself. I don't have all the answers and I have a lot to learn, but this is how I've approached things and it's worked so far. Good luck and I wish you the best. Sorry if I've rambled, I tried to be concise.

The ability to form positive personal relationships and contacts is the best way to compensate for a lack of experience. Like the saying goes, "It's not what you know, but who you know". I'm not discrediting the importance of nursing skill competence and the ability to practically apply your knowledge, but these are things that all new grads are expected to have. It is apparent to the nursing administrators and hiring staff that you lack sufficient experience in real world nursing. You must "sell" yourself by taking a proactive approach to making as many contacts as possible and getting to know the administrators, as well as the staff. Be outgoing and confident, but not arrogant. If you apply for a position on-line, go and introduce yourself to the unit manager so they can put a name with a face. My preceptorship was in SICU and I took full advantage of the opportunity by doing the very things I've just mentioned. Trust me, it works, and is the best way to stay ahead of the competition. Good luck and never stop fighting.

I have three more months until I graduate and I want to work in the NICU. This may not be the common choice for a male nurse, but I really love this area of nursing. Some of my best clinical rotations were during the OB semester. Do any of you female nurses in NICU work with men? Any input or advice? Do any guys out there that work in NICU have any advice? Thanks

What specific modifications need to be made when preparing a pt with Addison's disease for an IVP (intravenous pyelogram)??? I've got this question on a study guide for an upcoming comprehensive exam, and I CANNOT figure it out!!! PLEASE HELP!!! Could it be related to renal insufficiency/failure (which would contraindicate use of contrast dye) because the adrenal glands are above the kidneys???