Transferring to MICU from Surgical Floor

[KMULL002, BSN]

In two weeks I will be transferring to MICU from a surgical floor. I was wondering if anyone had any tips/suggestions on what life is like in MICU and how I can prepare. The only differences I am aware of are acuity, and patient load. From my own personal observation, it seems like there is teamwork on this unit(something I do not have where I work now). I also understand that MICU nurses do certain drips that med/surg nurses do not.

I have to take a class before I start in MICU(I have no idea what this class consists of but I think it's rhythms and dosage calculations. I also have to acquire my CCRN within two years.

If anyone can shed some light on this subject matter it would greatly be appreciated. I am a little nervous because I do not know what to expect.

[XB9S, BSN, MSN, EdD, RN, APN]

The best bit of advice I was given when I started in ICU was forget the machines, they assist you but remember you nursing skills and treat the patient and not the machines.

As a new ICU nurse you can get overwhelmed with the machinery and sometimes (I know I did) treat the patient as an extention of the machines rather than the machinery as an assistance to your patient.

When I preceptored new nurses, I used to take responsibility for all of the machinery and get them to take care of the basics, then add the pumps, vents monitors in bit by bit.

Good luck I hope you enjoy it