University MedSurg ICU vs Level 2 Trauma ICU

[8mpg]

Well, I have 2 job offers at the moment and wondering what you guys think would be the better option as far as experience for CRNA school. I have 2 years general ICU experience at this time.

University does lots of transplants (kidney/liver) and with that comes lots of CRRT. Outside of that, they get lots of pulmonary cases

The Leve 2 Trauma ICU is a larger facility (twice that of the University) and does the obvious trauma. They get a mix of car wrecks, to high and low level falls, etc.

Both seem to have advantages and disadvantages as far as benefits, location, etc. The two are really a wash as far as those things. Im trying to find where I will get the best experience when I decide to further my education. CRNA school has been a big motivation to me and a big reason I got into nursing. The biggest hold back was simply the not working for 2 years, pulling loans, etc. After a few smart moves, we landed with some great land equity. If we are able to sell in the next year or two, we will have a paid off house and have enough cash to pay off all schooling cash, and I believe live on. The fiance will continue working. Relieving the financial stress will allow for my original dream to possibly come true. Thus, Im looking for the best experience to accomplish getting into school.

[Dbb82]

Either or would help. The trauma ICU will have more critical patients and you will see more. There are times in my med/surge ICU that we dont have one patient that is on a critical care drip of somes ort, whereas you will always have one at the trauma ICU with an A-line, pressors, critical meds, etc.

Can't go wrong with a MICU, but you'll see more stuff at trauma. Also, try to get into a CV/CT ICU.

[justinlsu]

I would have to say the opposite. If The university where you're at does transplant I would go with that option. Transplants esp renal and hepatic are usually siiiiiiiiick with tons of fluid shifts and pharm considerations. Ive worked in a trauma before where it was exciting the first 8 or so hours, but once we got stabilized they were on cruise control. Either seem like pretty good opportunities though. Both will be what you make of them. Continue to learn everything you can, take the pts circling the drain every shift. Learn disease process and receptors. Good luck

[hoplite07]

Both sound like good opportunities. I honestly wouldn't sweat the decision if I was in your shoes. You already have decent experience right now. More will just be icing on the cake. Congrats on the rosy financial picture too, that's awesome!