Stay in MICU or go to STICU?

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Specializes in Step-down ICU.

I am currently working in a MICU, not a level 1 trauma, but it's > 600 beds and pretty high acuity. The only thing we do not take care of a lot of are Swans and patients with PA Catheters/Wedge pressures. My plan is to apply to CRNA school this fall (October). My question is: Should I apply to the Surgical Trauma ICU (STICU) now for more experience even though I will be applying to CRNA school in 6 months or just stick it out where I am?? I am not 100% happy where I am, nor am I 100% miserable either. I've been with my current hospital for 2 years, I am going for the career ladder this summer, serve on committees, etc. Not sure if that matters to the CRNA admissions board? We are going to computerized charting in a few months whereas the level 1 trauma hospital already does computerized charting. I know its not a bige deal, but I don't want to have to learn two computerized charting systems, so if it's better for me to get the STICU experience, I'd rather go now before the big changes occur. Thoughts?

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I personally think you should go to the STICU. A different experience will not be looked at as a bad thing. You already have the required experience from the MICU. The only thing is getting good letters of recommendation from your new boss, being that you will be asking only a couple of months after getting there. Good luck

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Specializes in Step-down ICU.

Thanks statABG. The references is something else I have to consider too. Decisions, decisions, decisions.

I personally think you should go to the STICU. A different experience will not be looked at as a bad thing. You already have the required experience from the MICU. The only thing is getting good letters of recommendation from your new boss, being that you will be asking only a couple of months after getting there. Good luck
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You could always just ask your micu boss for the ref? Maybe...

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