1.5yrs. NICU to Peds. Float?

[EverGraceRN]

Hey friends,

I'll try to keep this brief. I graduated with my BSN in the Spring of 2010. I am approaching 2 years as an RN in July, working solely in a Level III NICU. I also began at the same NICU a year prior, working as an extern, then being hired as a PCT while I completed my senior year.

Soooo, I really enjoy my job but a position has become available for a Peds Float. I would LOVE to experience all areas of peds... what better way than to float full-time? :)

I'm quite confident in my capabilities in my current position, so far. Obviously, I still ask questions, but I don't break out in a nervous sweat just showing up to work like I did fresh off orientation, ha! I've been a preceptor to new staff, as well. I haven't done anything ground-breaking, like make a unit wide change, nor am I a part of any committees. However, I've never been reprimanded and have excellent annual reviews.

HERE ARE MY QUESTIONS:

1) Is this too soon to pursue another position?

2) Advice on how to set myself apart?... considering I haven't done anything above and beyond regular duties. I've had multiple requests from families to "primary" their babies, though, which I'm sure must say something about me :)

3) What questions should I expect during an interview?-- keep in mind I have had ZERO experience as an RN with any peds population other that neonates.

4) Any other advice, pointers, etc. are welcome (like, should I include the externship & PCT positions on my resume although they were not RN positions?... you get the idea.)

THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!!

Warm regards

[catlover314]

1. Not too soon to branch out!

2. You answered this in your first paragraph...you want to learn, you connect with families, you've learned enough to precept others, so you learn fairly quickly and are fresh enough as a nurse that you can adapt easily to a new work environment.

3. "Why peds?" "Why now?" "What can you bring to this unit?"

4. Definately include the PCT experience! The PCTs know a dimension of units that nurses usually don't know, and have adaptability and multitasking ability that means if you were a successful PCT you will bring those attributes to a new job. Try to relate what you've learned as a new nurse in NICU to what you want to be as a more seasoned nurse...connection with families, reading the non-verbal of both patient and family, family centered care. Make sure you express this is your base knowledge and skill but that you want to expand that.

Smart move; this will increase your marketability, and increase your chances to work during low census times in either NICU or Peds. Good luck with your decision!

[EverGraceRN]

1. Not too soon to branch out! 2. You answered this in your first paragraph...you want to learn, you connect with families, you've learned enough to precept others, so you learn fairly quickly and are fresh enough as a nurse that you can adapt easily to a new work environment.3. "Why peds?" "Why now?" "What can you bring to this unit?" 4. Definately include the PCT experience! The PCTs know a dimension of units that nurses usually don't know, and have adaptability and multitasking ability that means if you were a successful PCT you will bring those attributes to a new job. Try to relate what you've learned as a new nurse in NICU to what you want to be as a more seasoned nurse...connection with families, reading the non-verbal of both patient and family, family centered care. Make sure you express this is your base knowledge and skill but that you want to expand that.Smart move; this will increase your marketability, and increase your chances to work during low census times in either NICU or Peds. Good luck with your decision!

WOW! Thank you so much for such an encouraging, thoughtful reply! You it the nail on the head; just what I needed! I'm super excited to apply... I'm refining my resume now, then I'll have to wait and see. Many many thanks! :)