TSICU cross training to CVICU

[_ICUfutureCRNA_]

Hello?

I wanted to see what opinions other nurses have on this topic.

A little background on me... I am a trauma/medical/surgical critical care nurse. I started as a new grad in a residency program 2.5 years ago. I really enjoy it, I respond as the level 1 trauma nurse, rapid response, and code nurse regularly and have the opportunity to precept/teach all the time which I love. As I am a more senior nurse on my unit (yes at 2.5 years, I am a senior there LOL) We get pretty bad traumas and some very sick MICU patients. It's the only level 2 trauma facility in the county and we get sick patients sent to us. I am actively applying to CRNA school so I am looking to strengthen my resume. 

Recently, my director asked if I would like to cross-train into the CVICU. I like the idea of having this experience on my resume for CRNA school, I am hesitant to cross-train because...

1. The CVICU is being expanded to 8 beds from 6, staffing is HORRIBLE there already. So I know I am being used to fill staffing gaps in both units now. The 8 beds will be on a unit with MICU patients so the admin's idea is to use TSICU/MICU RN's and "cross train" them to help with staffing. 

2. When I asked how long I would be given to orient/train with recovering hearts/balloon pumps/impellas, I was told "We will see"... I am wanting formal training in recovering hearts and devices used. The surgeon is VERY particular and is not the nicest person to work with, so a good orientation would be crucial to survival. 

3. I have been floated to the CVICU from the exact day I said I would like to cross-train. I was given a balloon pump and a swan-Ganz cath and expected to take the two patients after a very brief run-through of the balloon pump...I felt very pressured to take these patients by upper management who actually stated..."what's the problem...the line just sits there..."  

4. While I don't need to cross-train, I want to show the CRNA schools I am serious about getting in and am willing to go the extra mile to learn and take on this new realm of patients. 

5. I have not set up my cross-training days but all of my future shifts were just switched from the MICU to CVICU by management, I won't be training yet, just filling in and taking post-CABG patients waiting for transfer to the step-down unit. So really not helpful...as I have routinely taken these patients. 

Nervous I am the one being used just to fill in their staffing problems, I see this turning into a "sure we will cross-train you..." and really it's just 3 days of "training" and I never get the sick hearts. I think my willingness to help is being taken advantage of...

I appreciate any advice!

[MaxAttack, BSN, RN]

CVICU experience would look good for CRNA school but they are going to abuse you (as they already are). This is dangerous for you and for the patients. Cross-training is cross-training, not simply floating you to another unit and throwing you into the fire. If they're not willing to train, you shouldn't be willing to go.