Take classes during first RN Job?

[Janel_RN]

Hi guys!

So I just landed my first RN job, in the ICU, no less. I know how lucky I am, and I don't want to do ANYTHING to mess it up. I am planning grad school, and I need some pre-reqs (bio, ochem) to do so, and to get in the program by my goal I need to take ONE class this semester. My issue is telling my boss I am not available one day a week (the class is only on fridays, luckily). So my question: does it sound terrible to make myself unavailable one day a week? Or is that reasonable? I know many nurses do so for their kids activities, grad school, ect. I just feel so lucky to have this job I am a bit paranoid about blowing it!

[hikernurse]

I don't think being unavailable one day a week for class is unreasonable :). Most units encourage further education for nurses and are willing, to a degree, to work around their schedule. You can also trade the day away if you get scheduled.

Something to consider is that starting a brand new nursing job in an ICU might prove to be a little more overwhelming than it seems at first. There is a huge learning curve when you start work as a nurse, especially in an ICU. I speak from personal experience, I started in the NICU as a new grad several years ago and it was one of the best decisions I've made.

BUT, my brain was very busy for the first several months getting used to being an RN and learning the material necessary to successfully care for patients. For me, going back to school right away would have been more stress than I needed at the time. I did have a family at the time--still do, lol . So my situation may be very different than yours, but it never hurts to hear of someone else's experiences, I think.

I know that last part wasn't what you asked and sorry if I'm butting in :).

[Janel_RN]

Thanks for your reply! I asked my manager, she said she can "try" to work around it but can't guarantee it. I guess that's good enough :) Your letter made me feel better about it. Also, I realize the challenge, I feel it already! No kids here...hopefully that helps a bit.

[koi310]

I think your first job (in ICU no less) is education enough for your first six months at least. I'd just focus on learning your job before you start taking more classes.