sicu interview....

[RNmaria]

Hello!

IU am a new grad with a licence, RN and will soon be interviewing for a NRP for a position on a SICU floor. I was just wondering what I can expect regarding the interview that would be specific to qualifying me for the SICU? Any suggestions on specific questions that I sould be asking would also be helpful.

I know critical thinking is very desirable for this position so how would they determine that in an interview, especially for a new grad?

thank you so much......pasha

[JT RN]

check out the thread "ICU interview help," there were 2 replies there with some info, including my response. most of your concerns are covered in there.

some general questions you may consider asking. RN/new grad turn-over rate (most hospitals keep track of this, it's fairly important to them.) Magnet status, if you care about that. Availability of intensivists (the place I work has on-unit intensivists 24/7, makes a big difference.) Utilization of multi-disciplinary rounds (rarely seen, but quite useful.) Staffing of RN's, respiratory therapists, pharmacists, etc. (again, the hospital I'm at has ICU-specific pharmacists, RT's, dieticians, etc. very helpful.) # of beds, patient population. Basically anything and everything to help you paint a picture of the environment.

as I stated in my other post, give them every opportunity to "sell" the facility to you. ICU positions are highly sought after, but even as a new grad, nurses are in high demand. Interview at multiple sites and take your pick. Good luck!

edit: one more thing, do some research on the facility to show that you've invested some time and are genuinely interested in the site. look at the history, the mission & values, the specialty areas unique to that facility. i.e. if they have a dedicated cancer center or burn unit, doesn't hurt to ask about it.