Trauma ICU vs MSICU for new grad

Hoozdo, ADN · Jun 8, 2006

Hello everyone. I am a new grad getting ready to start work and am fortunate to have a difficult choice in where to accept work. I have offers for new grad programs at two hospitals. One is a county hospital level one trauma center in the trauma/ surgical ICU. The other is at a major university hospital in the med/sug ICU. I am leaning towards the med sug ICU because I think I will get a broader base of experience. It is in the UC system (UCSF) which is also a plus. It is a tough decision and I would appreciate any input from others on which would be the best spot for a new grad to gain good critical care skills. Thanks.

I am a new grad from Dec 05 and started in the med/surg ICU. I had a six month orientation and I am glad for that. I was pretty fumbly as a new grad.....for at least the first couple of months. Personally, if I had to pick......I wouldn't want trauma cases as a new grad. There is a strong sense of urgency with traumas that will put additional stress on you. The med/surg ICU is stressfull enough. Imagine having to do everything STAT on a trauma. Yeah, I would lean towards the med/surg ICU

kmvel · Jun 21, 2006

Hi! I Have To Tell You That I Would Definitely Choose Ms Icu. Don't Get Me Wrong, I Love Trauma, But It Can Get Somewhat Like A Blue Print When Treating Trauma Patients. Ms Icu Will Expose You To So Many Different Things And Really Give You A Good Foundation. I Have Worked In Both And Strongly Reccommend Starting In Ms Icu.