dino56

I work in GI with a slightly different twist, and I wouldn't trade it for the world! I am the care coordinator for a university-based Pediatric GI group. I do whatever it takes to get the kids the cares they need...counsel parents re: GERD and constipation and IBS, coordinate home care for enteral and parental nutrition patients, work with the families of kids with chronic and undiagnosed abdominal pain, work with the kids with chronic liver disease who will ultimately need transplant, and work with families of kids who are failing to thrive. I also work with the schools and, unfortunately, from time to time with CPS. I teach, coordinate, listen, cheerlead, refer, offer basic baby care advice, collaborate with the docs on care plans, arrange for care, and act as a resource to the inhouse and clinic nursing staff. I manage G tubes and work on protocols for nursing care. I started my career in cardiac care, moved to renal, then to nursing eduction and then to quality improvement. I have never been happier. Carpe deium! And good luck! Kate

I'm a peds GI care coodinator and I generally suggest 5ml for kids with good kidney and heart function. It's really easy for meds to clog those teeny tubes.

I think you're good to go! Back in the early 80s when I was a new grad it was not at all uncommon for new grads to join ICUs. Having had an internship in one, I was readily hired into one and spent several content years there. I don't think being a new grad is a handicap. If you are motivated, have some experience, and want to work in an environment that requires you to think and make decisions 8 hours a day, ICU is for you. Best regards, and welcome to Nursing! Graduation May 24, 2005!!!