SICU Interview!! Help!!

[ksuSN12]

I graduated from a BSN program in Dec 2012. I passed the nclex and worked as an RN in med-telemetry for a while. I got my ACLS. I knew I had a passion for ICU but couldnt get in anywhere.

In the meantime, Ive done allergy nursing and RN Case Management for Hospice/Home Health. Ive gotten decent experience- I was still using med-surg skills with my homebound patients. But its been nearly a year since I actually worked in a hospital

Anyways...I landed an interview in the SICU, which is SUCH a dream of mine. I love the low nurse-patient ratio that allows you to know EVERYTHING about your patient, you're always with them. Its high intensity, takes a lot of skill and knowledge. I love drips, vents..

Any nurses have any feedback on how to really sell myself to get this position? I dont want to come off too excited and too "OMG ITS MY DREAM"...so how do I show my enthusiasm without crossing the line? What do SICU managers want to see in their applicants? My ACLS and BLS and both current through AHA, and like I said, I have a BSN and SOME hospital experience though most of it has been allergy and case management. Thanks all!

[Kmrn609]

First of all, congrats! It is VERY hard to even get an interview!!

I was literally just in the EXACT same position as you, including the time in case management home care. And i start my new SICU job in June!

why are you afraid to say it is your dream job? Nurse managers want to know you are committed...they are putting a lot of time and resources into training you. I was very upfront that this was my dream job, and that I was committed to making it a career. Don't be afraid to say what you want!!!

Good luck, just be yourself, and you will do great. Most of all, be humble. Acknowledge that you have a lot to learn, but make sure you highlight your strengths too, like the awesome assessment skills you've gained in home health.

Good luck!!

[Here.I.Stand, BSN, RN]

I do think you can express where your heart and passion lie without being an overly exuberant bottle of bubbles. A big part of ICU nursing is getting that pt better enough to transfer out; I'm sure you have home health skills that you could apply to this goal. Also, you've probably been able to hone your independent critical thinking skills, something that is very important in the ICU. Let us know how the interview goes!