To wait, or not to wait?

[Telenurse1990]

So, I got a travel contract offer in another state for an ICU within an LTAC. I am relatively new, one year of ICU experience (4 in total as an RN) so I expected to not be able to find the best of the best first time around. But, the place I'm looking into (been offered a contract) is located in Arizona. They take Drips, vents, code and rapid teams just like normal unit, except the fact that there is no doctor to respond to these codes (they're being ran by the nursing supervisor) and are on paper charting. I'd love to go and experience something new, but I need some guidance lol. Should I wait another year and then travel? I was thinking about going to a different unit just to learn something new before travelling. Any advice is welcomed!

[icuRNmaggie, BSN, RN]

I have always wanted to do a contract in an LTAC to learn how they wean patients from the vent and decannulate in a matter of a few weeks.

[JeanOfAllTraits]

Yes, Maggie, how DO they do that!

[calivianya, BSN, RN]

That sounds like fun! I have never done paper charting, so that is the only thing that would give me pause about that job. I wish I could travel right now, but love my SO too much to ditch him and he's not much of a long distance person. I'd say do it while you're able! I think 4 years of experience with a year in ICU is plenty of experience to branch out and try something new.

[Telenurse1990]

I appreciate the input! I actually have an interview with an ICU float pool where I will be bouncing from CCU, CVICU, NEURO, MICU ETC. I actually have made the decision to wait, as I feel that 6months to a year in this position will give me what I need experience wise to travel.