Seeking advice New Grad Cardiopulmonary unit vs Orthopedic unit

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Hello nursing people,

I am using this website to see if anyone has any advice for a new grad who has been given the option of working at two different facilities. I have been offered a position in Twin Falls, Idaho at St. Luke's on the Cardiopulmonary unit and also been offered a position in Fort Collins, Colorado at Poudre Valley Hospital on the Orthopedic unit. What would a new grad be exposed to in these positions? I am looking for any advice from people who have experience at either of these facilities or either of these units. I didn't get a ton of exposure on a cardiopulmonary or orthopedic unit while doing rotations and want to be sure I'm making a decision I will be happy with and able to further my career as a nurse if either unit isn't perfect for me. I had a face to face interview with Fort Collins and really enjoyed the town and employees but had a phone interview with Twin Falls (they seem to also be a good group of people but town is much smaller). I feel lucky to have been given a choice and for all those out there still looking, stay positive and you'll get your foot in the door.

Thanks in advance for any input.

-Craig

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

Lucky you! Sounds like you have two great opportunities.

Since it seems as though you are going to have to relocate for either one of them, I would advise you to give a lot of consideration to the location. You're not going to be at work 24X7 - which town would be the best fit for you in terms of housing? leisure activities? day trips on weekends? proximity to your family/support system?

Patient demographics may also be a consideration. Ortho units tend to have a much younger & predominately male population (due to the tendency toward "hey y'all watch this" phenomenon among males ages 18-35 :nailbiting:) Cardiopulmonary patients tend to be older, with more chronic, multi-system disease.

Best of luck no matter which you choose!

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Specializes in Pediatrics.

I think HouTx provided some great advice! I'd also recommend to the OP to consider what are your long term career goals? Which job (unit and hospital/location) will help set you up to best achieve them? Sounds like a great predicament to be in!

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Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.

Ortho also has plenty of old ladies with broken hips and middle aged men and women getting knee replacements.

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