Where to start?

dawngloves, BSN, RN · Feb 15, 2002

Get ready to write your ticket! :cool:

A good way to figure out where you want to be is during clinicals. You spend a little time here and there and get a feel for different areas.

I would then apply for a CNA job in that area. It may help you see things differently and might change your mind or reinforce your decision, thus giving you a leg up.

Good luck!

mario_ragucci · Feb 16, 2002

Im undecided, just like you. Although I would love to work with patients that have digestion problems. I don't know what that is called, however. enterics? gastrologist? You'll be all right!!! Welcome.

RNforLongTime · Feb 18, 2002

The men that I went to school with either went into cardiac or emergency room nursing. Now with the nursing shortage, you can choose whichever specialty you like! Good Luck!

mattsmom81 · Feb 18, 2002

I am an older 'n dirt nurse who strongly recommends nerw grads do a year of med surg to solidify their skills and learn organization and prioritizing. After a year in medsurg, you can then go wherever your heart desires---be it critical care, ER, rehab, psych, OR, you name it!

I'm a critical care nurse myself and with today's shortage, I do get new grads into ICU and ER occasionally. My opinion is they have missed out by not doing the medsurg and they tend to floundera bit, as well as being an extra drain on the orienting staff which doesn't help their new nurse jitters!! So, for what it's worth, ya got my opinion!! LOL! Best wishes and enjoy your clinicals! The neatest thing about nursing is there are SO many options!

sgavette · Feb 19, 2002

I have to agree with Mattsmom81. I also feel that someone with no experience should start out working a year in med-surg, then the decisions are many. Clinical rotations will help a lot, since it gives you exposure to many areas of nursing.

Good luck with whatever you choice to do.