Tips on Getting an ICU Job as a New Grad

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Specializes in Operating Room.

Hi everyone!

I am currently a nursing student and am very interested in working in the ICU. I have shadowed nurses in other areas, like the emergency department and med surg, and also work in the operating room right now as a surgical tech, so I have some familiarity with duties of nurses in areas outside of the ICU.

Long story short, I know I want to be in the ICU. I am motivated and driven, and willing to do what it takes to get into the ICU as a new grad.

Are there any classes I should take or skills I should have mastered to make my application look more appealing as a new grad? Would shadowing in an ICU or taking a vascular access class help increase my chances?

Thank you all for your help and advice in advance!

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Specializes in Dialysis.

Just apply to any openings you find. Realize that some ICUs hire new grads, some want experienced ICU only, etc. Depending on where you are, you may need to move for that first job. Many variables. I would reach out to the manager during clinicals if able

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Specializes in SICU,CTICU,PACU.

As Hoosier said just apply to all of them and see what happens but I highly discourage you from doing this. If you do get accepted get into a good orientation program (at least 4 months) otherwise you are setting yourself up for failure no matter how motivated and driven you are. There is just not enough time in 3 months to learn nursing basics plus ICU nursing and you will struggle big time.

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Specializes in Operating Room.
2 hours ago, Hoosier_RN said:

Just apply to any openings you find. Realize that some ICUs hire new grads, some want experienced ICU only, etc. Depending on where you are, you may need to move for that first job. Many variables. I would reach out to the manager during clinicals if able

Thanks for the input, I appreciate it!

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Specializes in anesthesiology.

Get a job as a tech in the ICU if you can, that's prob your best bet. And from your handle, and the fact you already work in the OR, don't even mention you know what a CRNA is to anyone.

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Specializes in Operating Room.
14 hours ago, murseman24 said:

Get a job as a tech in the ICU if you can, that's prob your best bet. And from your handle, and the fact you already work in the OR, don't even mention you know what a CRNA is to anyone.

Yes, I've heard from other people not to mention future CRNA plans in ICU interviews. Thanks for the advice!

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