Small versus Large ICU

[SN2432, RN, NP]

Hello

I have been offered a Nightshift RN position with a small hospital. the ICU is about 10 beds but has the potential for growth. my question is would be taking a smaller ICU position beneficial for someone who has no ICU experience to maybe go forward to a bigger unit one day. I understand they will not see some things but I assume you would get a baseline for ICU or am I wrong? 

[beekee]

It will be beneficial. Sure, you won’t see everything but it’ll be a good place to hone your critical thinking and skills. You can transfer to a larger ICU in the future, if you want. 
 

In my opinion, the unit culture is one of the most important factors when deciding between job offers. I’d focus on that more than big versus small. 

[SN2432, RN, NP]

So far the manager has been awesome to speak with. he is not overbearing and pretty cool with knowing I am in school. 

[sevensonnets]

Most managers are not overbearing (raising my hand here). I'd say take the smaller unit job to learn at a slower pace then you can move on.

["nursy", RN]

You will definitely get a baseline, and ALL  experience is helpful.  Also you might be surprised at what you get even in a small hospital.  When I worked in a huge county hospital all the ICU's were specialized; Medical ICU, Cardiac ICU, Surgical ICU etc.  I worked medical ICU, and never saw surgical patients, had minimal cardiac stuff, etc.  Smaller ICU's get it all.  

[PortlandRN2020, BSN]

This sounds exactly like my situation. How are you liking it?