Hello everyone! I am a new grad RN! I just passed my NCLEX a couple of days ago! First, I want to mention that I worked as an ER nurse extern for the last year of nursing school. I really enjoyed being in the ED and I felt like I learned a lot! I practiced iv placement, POC lab draws, straight caths, NG tubes, EKG, splinting, and responding to code blues.
I currently have a job offer for an ED nurse residency position. This position is at a hospital that isn't one of my top choices. The main reason is that they have a stipend pay for the first 4 months of residency. I would be making less than I did as a nurse extern, and it does not have benefits or PTO until after those 4 months. This hospital has a 2 year contract.
I just interviewed for an ICU nurse residency position and it is pretty likely that I will be offered the job. This position IS at a hospital that I love. I did clinicals here for my last semester. I would love to work in this hospital's ED. This ICU position also pays 2x as much as the other ED position at the other hospital, with benefits starting instantly. This job does not require a contract and will allow you to move to other departments within the hospital within 6 months.
I feel conflicted because I REALLY want to continue to develop in the ED, however, I know that the hospital with the ICU position is prestigious.
Either way, I am VERY thankful for the wonderful opportunities presented to me.
My question is,
WHAT SHOULD I CHOOSE? What are some factors I should look into before choosing a hospital/position?
Thank you!
