Reasons for ICU

[OrlandoFLNurse2b]

I'm a nursing student and just wondering what are some of the reasons that you SICU or MICU nurses went into these departments?

[RNFELICITY]

I personally went into the ICU setting to improve and enhance my knowlege base as a practicing nurse. I wanted to understand more and know more. i wanted to learn to be proactive instead of reactive in my patient care.

I also love the rush...although the stress on your mind and body was a lot more than I had bargained for. You see these nurses that have 2 patients that are bed ridden and etc and you think, "Oh this would be soooo much easier!" NOT!!!!! You are the primary care giver. If the pt vomits or stools or needs turned, you are the doer...no PCA...nothing.

I like knowing every little thing about my patients. I like the challenge of trying to fix things within my power. I love the rush of the codes. The rush of having to do 8 million things at once....

I know I am rambling, but I haven't had my first cup of coffee yet...lol

[stressgal, RN]

I personally went into the ICU setting to improve and enhance my knowlege base as a practicing nurse. I wanted to understand more and know more. i wanted to learn to be proactive instead of reactive in my patient care.

I also love the rush...although the stress on your mind and body was a lot more than I had bargained for. You see these nurses that have 2 patients that are bed ridden and etc and you think, "Oh this would be soooo much easier!" NOT!!!!! You are the primary care giver. If the pt vomits or stools or needs turned, you are the doer...no PCA...nothing.

I like knowing every little thing about my patients. I like the challenge of trying to fix things within my power. I love the rush of the codes. The rush of having to do 8 million things at once....

I know I am rambling, but I haven't had my first cup of coffee yet...lol

RNFelicity, I think I must have another screen name and posted this message in my sleep Those are very much the same feelings I have as an ICU nurse. Love it and wouldn't think of doing anything else. I thrive on the critical thinking, attempting to prevent forseen issues, and having the autonomy to act instead of react. Nothing gets me more excited than titrating numerous drips, correcting hemodynamic issues all while providing quality care to those select patients who need so much. Yes it can be overwhelming, most of the time it is, but it is sooooo rewarding. I do think it takes a very dedicated and even a special personality type to succeed in critical care. We rock!:bowingpur LOL!

[labcat01, BSN, RN]

I also love the rush...although the stress on your mind and body was a lot more than I had bargained for. You see these nurses that have 2 patients that are bed ridden and etc and you think, "Oh this would be soooo much easier!" NOT!!!!!

I like knowing every little thing about my patients. I like the challenge of trying to fix things within my power. I love the rush of the codes. The rush of having to do 8 million things at once....

I had my choice of either ER or ICU and I chose ICU- I was afraid I would get bored and fat sitting around all day...HAH! I've lost weight since I started working and I'm lucky if I get to sit down.

I think RNFELICITY is right on the money :)