Questions to ask in interview

[CFrancine, BSN, RN]

Just finished my first year as an RN in a ICU in a small community hospital. Not extremely critical patients at all but a good place for a new grad to learn without being overwhelmed. Big problem was this place was RAN by new grads... Most of the nurses (especially on nights) had two or less years of experience! They hired about 20 new grads when I started, all for nights!! Everyone with experience was on day shift and/or has been leaving d/t management issues. A bit unsafe in my opinion, not the best training or resources when you needed then, etc etc. I knew this wasn't the best situation but when you're a new grad you take what you can!

So I'm interviewing with a REAL ICU - very critical patients and one of the best hospitals in our system.

What kind of questions would you ask on your interview? I've never really asked questions before outside of the standard but now I know you REALLY have to know what's going on with a place before accepting a position. I'm making a list so I don't walk into a similar situation. I already have a good start but I'm sure there are tons of things I won't even think of.

I mean anything from orientation, staffing, training, holidays, unit culture, expected extras (like being on committees), doctors/residents, management, or whatever else would come to mind. I need to make sure this is a good move for me. A coworker of mine just got hired and she said she asked questions for a full hour so they don't mind you "interviewing them".