Thought/advice on a couple of options

[RNDave]

I'm nearing the end of my first year as an RN. I've been working on a medsurg floor. I generally like it and I've learned a ton. I haven't really developed any long term career goals except that I've been considering a move to ICU. I've been thinking that if that's what I want to do, then I should just do it. But I also have been thinking that maybe I'm not quite ready and should get a little more proficient. I'm just starting to get a handle on the whole 'prioritization and time management' part of medsurg nursing.

So, here are the options:

1. Just do it. Actively seek an ICU position now and not pretend that I'm intend to stay long term with my current position.

2. Get more experience and proficiency. In the process of getting more proficient I would be getting chemotherapy certified and renewing my ACLS. With this option I would probably be looking to change to ICU in early 2009.

I am sensitive to management's point of view that it a lot of cost and energy goes into training a new RN. But, I also want to look out for my own interests and find my 'niche'.

Dave

[RN1989]

If you can get your chemo provider card and then transfer to the unit, you will be much more marketable in the future. Renewing your chemo card is like renewing BLS/ACLS - you don't have to have done a ton of chemo but you have to pass the requirements so you can keep your chemo card forever as a nice little incentive to your future employers.

[MedicalLPN, LPN]

I would agree with the previous poster. Where I work none of the ICU nurses are chemo certified so one of our chemo nurses gets pulled to do their chemo. I think getting your certification and becoming familiar with hanging chemo would really help you stand out from other applicants when you apply to an ICU position.

[RNDave]

Thanks you two. Sounds like a plan to me. I'm staying put for a while!