What floor should I get my first job?

[momster]

Tele/ICU or LDR/NICU Where to start!

I graduate in May (RN). Hooray. I went into school wanting to be a Labor and Delivery Nurse. However, the more I learn the more I realize that I might want to work in other areas as well.

I could work Tele or ICU a few years to get broader (and critical) experience --just to have it under my belt. I don't love it, or feel called to it (I actually find it incredibly stressful) but think it may be a practical move to gain experience and provide me options in the future.

Or.... should I jump right into LDR or NICU. I know I will like it, but in 15 years if I want a change, I am afraid my options will be limited.

I am a 35 year old mother of 2, who looks forward to enjoying her career and even more her time with her family (free of studying and take-home stress)

Any advice? Where should I start?

[suzanne in hawaii]

It is up to you to decide what is best. Being a new RN is stressful and so it is easier if you are doing something you love. However, being a tele nurse first would help you because you will have mothers with medical conditions such as diabetes, cholecystitis, infections etc. I know new grads can start off in ICU nowadays, but the general consensus among new grads who do is that it is extremely stressful without at least one year on the floor. If your love is moms and babies, you will always have a job in maternal baby nursing or you could go to nicu someday if you want to. Good luck!