Should I forget this dream?

Pediatric Critical Care Columnist · Dec 23, 2007

I think you should take some time to get comfortable with what you're doing now. When it starts to feel routine then you could think about something a little more fast-paced and immediate. It's normal to be stressed out and uncertain in a new job, especially in a field like nursing. You have to live it for a good while before you feel like you know what you're doing and can take on bigger challenges. Emergeny and trauma are a lot different than PP and you'll need to have a good command of your nursing skills and your assessment skills to feel really useful in those areas. Take some time. If it's right for you, you'll know when the time is right to make the move.

love-d-OR · Dec 23, 2007

I second Janfrn

SteveNNP, MSN, NP · Dec 23, 2007

I went to the ER from NICU/PICU and while I found it fast-paced and challenging, I also missed the continuity of having 1-2 patients for a few days, as well as being able to take in the "whole picture" as we do in critical care. I found myself tiring of the routine of ER. Rushed assessment, labs, tests, meds, discharge (repeat 6-18 times a day) I would recommend getting a better feel for your unit. Get involved in a unit committee, and focus on learning as much as you can while you are in this specialty. Maybe you can get a per diem ER job to get your feet wet?

Oh.... I lasted about 4 months in ER, before heading back to my little NICU/PICU niche.

RNperdiem, RN · Dec 23, 2007

Confidence is earned through experience. Experience is what you are getting now on your first job.

Once you get some experience, then start looking around. A good orientation is crucial. If there are teaching hospitals in your area, look there first. Call some nurse recruiters, and have them send you information about their trauma and ER departments.

If this is your dream, start with a few baby steps.