What unit/floor is best to work on prior to getting into the PICU?

[SillyFever, ADN, BSN, RN]

Hi guys!

I was just wondering what floor/unit you would recommend to get the best experience or best chance of getting into the PICU with? In my state, it is difficult to get into any pediatric position without nursing experience (I am a new grad) and they usually want at least 1 year, if not more RN experience for any peds job. Did anyone on here get in through adult med/surg or what unit did you previously transition from?

Thanks so much!

[PeakRN]

When we hire in my center we typically favor critical care over floor pediatric experience. Unfortunately adult med/surg is unlikely to give you either experience, but you also have to start with the job you can get. If you are willing to relocate there are often programs where you can start as a new grad in a large ICU.

[SillyFever, ADN, BSN, RN]

On 7/13/2020 at 12:32 PM, PeakRN said:

When we hire in my center we typically favor critical care over floor pediatric experience. Unfortunately adult med/surg is unlikely to give you either experience, but you also have to start with the job you can get. If you are willing to relocate there are often programs where you can start as a new grad in a large ICU.

Thank you! I'm actually starting in an Adult ICU at a local hospital near me. I am hoping to get a year of experience and then transfer over to PICU.