Transition to ICU...Residency?

[WndrlstRN]

Hi all!

I'm an RN with 3-4 years of varied experience (ED - Level I and Level II Trauma; PACU; other Surgical Services). After trying something different with PACU, I realized that I miss working in the ED (never thought I'd say that). Sure, it's disorganized chaos...but, I really missed doing nursing. PACU is very different in that sense.

Regardless of all that, I have wanted to transition to ICU for some time. I'm looking for the patient contact, the challenge and the in-depth knowledge that comes along with working there. I've come across the opportunity at my hospital to apply for the Critical Care Residency. In the program, the RN cycles through the different ICUs in the hospital (CVICU, med/surg ICU, etc.). However, there are several positions open in (I believe) all of the departments that I could apply to outright.

My question is: Do you think it is necessary, or more beneficial, for an experienced RN to complete a residency (12-13 weeks) when transitioning to ICU? Or, do you think that orientation (4-6 weeks) is time enough to transition? I've had experience with critical patients, but not for extended periods of time (think ED and PACU - we like to move them out!).

I appreciate all of your opinions. Thanks!

[btab3]

Following!

[AnthonyD]

I think it depends on the individual, but honestly I can't see any reason NOT to do the residency. It sounds like a really great opportunity. You will see a variety of patients in different settings, and you'll have more insight into which you prefer. Also, you'll have more time to get used the new environment and a whole new style of prioritizing and time management. I say go for it.

[CCNP-FL]

I have a different background. I was a PCA, then an LPN, then a med-surg nurse who went into critical care less than 2 years after licensure. I went through a 13-week "residency" training program. One benefit was the CEUs. My hospital also provided me with a certificate of completion of a CCU residency program. Although it is just a piece of paper, it is handy to list on a resume and the experience was beneficial to me as a non-critically trained nurse. For you, I suspect your knowledge and critical thinking skills are far superior to mine when I entered CCU. The benefit for you will be certificate recognition of the residency which, I think, would give you better movement to other hospitals in the future.

[Anastasiak]

I am also looking for an experience to transition into an ICU? How did you find out about those options? What hospital offers the internship?

[CCNP-FL]

Hospitals typically advertise these "CCU Residency" programs on their hiring websites. Mine, for instance, just hired 5 nurses for the 12 week program. They are not always easy to find and typically require telemetry experience, but exist :). Good luck!

[dah doh, BSN, RN]

Unless you have ICU experience, my facility puts you through new grad orientation. For nurses experienced in other areas, skills are evaluated and orientation can be lessened (fast-tracked). I've trained new grads and RN's from med-surg, ER, PACU, and management positions. Orientation times vary depending on skill sets and how quick you learn.

I personally think, take whatever orientation a new facility or unit is willing to provide because will never get that opportunity again!