Table of Contents
Can you go straight to ICU after nursing school?
Is it possible for a new nurse to work in the ICU? Yes, but it is the exception and not the rule. I want to encourage all new nurses and nurse grads – if your goal is to work in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), that it might be possible right away, but it’s not easy and not for everyone.
Should new grads start in ICU?
It turns out that new grad nurses can be successful working in the ICU, but if the environment is healthy, the new grad will be even more successful. Therefore, it is necessary for experienced nurses to be supportive and open to the idea of new grads starting on their turf.
How do I become an ICU nurse?
To be eligible to work in the ICU, you will need at least an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN). After passing the NCLEX-RN—a national exam that qualifies you as a registered nurse—you can begin applying to positions in the ICU.
Can you work in the ICU right out of school?
Finding that first new graduate nursing job right out of school is a huge source of stress and anxiety to many nursing students. For those students that want to work in the ICU ( critical care) right out of school the options might seem even more terrifying.
Is the ICU a good place for a new Grad nurse?
Starting in the ICU can be tough but within the structure of a well designed internship or residency I think it is the BEST place for a new grad nurse to start (of course, I might be a bit biased) and it all depends on your goals. The problem is . . . many ICUs want 2-3 years experience . . . here are some tricks to land those coveted positions.
How do you transition from nursing school to ICU?
Many Nurse Externs transition into an RN New Graduate Internship program once they pass the NCLEX. For experienced RNs, making the transition into the ICU requires applying to an ICU position and usually engaging in a training program either before applying or concurrently with the application.
How do I become a nurse aid in the ICU?
The best thing you could do is go to work in the ICU you want to be an nurse in as a CNA or tech. This way the nurse manager will already be familiar with your work ethic and hiring you as an RN will be less risky. I suggest you seek out nurse residency programs for ICU and then seek to work in one of those units as an aid.