Would like some advice about a future in Cath Lab

[tonytorres717]

Hello everyone, i'm going to try to keep it short. Basically, I am an ADN student who plans to go on and get my BSN. So far, Cath lab has caught my eye more than any other specialty, but I also understand that it (usually) takes previous experience in other units, and is highly preferred. What would you recommend me start in as a new grad to build up the skills I need to hopefully, someday work in cath lab? -most people say ICU but what else, from your experience or the experience of others is a really good "preparation" job(s)? I am just curious because I really feel a passion for this but I know it will take alot of hard work to get there. I just want to make sure that im taking the right path to make sure I can be the best nurse I can be! thanks!!!

Also, I am free all summer so if there are any courses or certifications that you think would benefit growth in that general direction, just let me know and ill definitely consider! :)

[Da_Milk_of_Amnesia, MSN]

I'm pretty sure you definitely need other experience before going to the cath lab. If you're unable to get into ICU right out of school then it looks like you'll have to do your year in med surge and then go into a CCU for a year or 2 and then eventually to cath lab. Any of the certs that would help you, you need to have experience, i.e CCRN/CMC/CSC. The only ones you can really obtain would be the general ACLS/PALS etc. Stuff like ATLS/AMLS/TNCC don't really apply to cath lab type stuff and would be a waste of time, money and effort