Multiple ICU Jobs? Good or Bad?

Nursing Students SRNA

Published

I currently work part-time in a STICU/Neuro ICU at a 400+bed facility and PRN in an ICU at a 100+bed facility. Should I drop my hours at the PRN job and work full-time at the busier unit? Does it matter? I work 24 hours at each job at the moment.

I enjoy my PRN job more, but I started the STICU job to get more experience for CRNA school. The certain CRNA school I want to attend does not state specifically whether full-time ICU experience is required. Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks ahead of time!!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in CVICU, Trauma ICU, ER and EMS.

Runningguy19,

I too have multiple jobs even now awaiting my March start date for anesthesia school. Presently I have 3 jobs, all of which I work weekly (TSICU/CVICU, ER and FF/EMTP). I don't think multiple jobs is seen as a hindrance when applying to anesthesia school, but having one real good job is not a bad thing either. I applied to 4 schools and got into all 4, and I think the volume and amount of hours I worked really helped me stand out (80-100hrs+/wk). So I say more time in the busier ICU would be better then the alternative, but time and volume of hours worked as a RN is the definition of experience, so more is always better.

Best of luck to you and take care.

Oh, by the way... some programs specifically ask you how many hours you work on your application and what shift you may even work. So be honest when it comes to your hours and try to put in as many hours as you can at the bigger unit if possible.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Thanks for the advice. I've thought of picking up a PRN NICU if one becomes available in addition to my two current jobs, but I have a family to spend time with. Always wanted to try NICU, but I'm sure adult ICUs are more favorable in application process.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ER, TICU.

If you work 24 hours at each job then it shouldn't be a problem. As long as you have worked full time hours between the two for a year the school shouldn't matter. In regards to the NICU job, I wouldn't do it just to get into anesthesia school. I am in a program now and we have people that have never done pediatrics except for nursing school, and we have a student who has only done peds since graduation. In my opinion though the STICU may prepare you more.

Good Luck!!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Add a Comment