3 answers
Abby
Student
Fort Collins, Colorado
1
Question
Asked
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As a nurse, what have been your favorite and least favorite departments to work in? Why? ?
I'm early on in school and I've been thinking a lot about where I might like to start my career as a nurse once I get my RN. I know some nurses love ICU or ED while others have a gift for hospice or mental health/psychiatric. I'd love to hear your stories and advice about finding the right fit, and how you knew it was the right department for you (and maybe how you knew the wrong department was wrong, too)
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3 answers
Susana Abena Appiah
MIDWIFE
67
Answers
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Updated
Susana Abena’s Answer
Thanks, Abby, for the question,
t’s great that you’re already thinking about where you’d like to start your career as a nurse! Each department offers its own unique experiences and challenges.
For me, as Registered Midwife, Obstetrics and Gynecology (Obs/Gynae) is a fulfilling area to work in. It allows you to be part of one of the most exciting moments in a person’s life—the birth of a baby. It’s emotionally rewarding, and you get to work with expectant mothers and families. The work can be intense, but there’s also a great sense of joy when everything goes well.
On the other hand, my least favorite is ICU. Why? Because it involves high-pressure situations, complex care, and a heavy emotional toll, especially when dealing with critically ill patients. It can be mentally and physically exhausting, and not everyone feels suited for the fast-paced, high-stakes environment. It requires constant vigilance, technical skills, and the ability to make quick decisions in life-or-death situations, which might not align with everyone’s strengths or preferences.
As for finding the right fit, it often comes down to your personality and what kind of work resonates with you. For instance, if you enjoy working with patients who are going through life-changing events and are looking for a nurturing and supportive environment, Obst/Gynae might feel like a perfect match. On the other hand, if you thrive in high-intensity situations, ICU might suit you better.
t’s great that you’re already thinking about where you’d like to start your career as a nurse! Each department offers its own unique experiences and challenges.
For me, as Registered Midwife, Obstetrics and Gynecology (Obs/Gynae) is a fulfilling area to work in. It allows you to be part of one of the most exciting moments in a person’s life—the birth of a baby. It’s emotionally rewarding, and you get to work with expectant mothers and families. The work can be intense, but there’s also a great sense of joy when everything goes well.
On the other hand, my least favorite is ICU. Why? Because it involves high-pressure situations, complex care, and a heavy emotional toll, especially when dealing with critically ill patients. It can be mentally and physically exhausting, and not everyone feels suited for the fast-paced, high-stakes environment. It requires constant vigilance, technical skills, and the ability to make quick decisions in life-or-death situations, which might not align with everyone’s strengths or preferences.
As for finding the right fit, it often comes down to your personality and what kind of work resonates with you. For instance, if you enjoy working with patients who are going through life-changing events and are looking for a nurturing and supportive environment, Obst/Gynae might feel like a perfect match. On the other hand, if you thrive in high-intensity situations, ICU might suit you better.
Martin Schoen
APRN
325
Answers
Ocala, Florida
Updated
Martin’s Answer
Your questions and comments are spot on! It's true that everyone is unique, and finding what interests you is key. While I didn't enjoy working on a med/surg floor or in geriatrics, many nurses find their passion there. I prefer roles where I can communicate and engage with patients regularly, so working in an Alzheimer's unit or a busy psych floor wasn't for me. Critical care is incredibly rewarding and can be challenging, but if you're interested in learning about the technology, it might be a great fit. For example, a cardiac monitor can alert you to a patient's condition before they even feel any pain or discomfort. The Emergency Department is fast-paced and mixes many fields, which can be exciting. However, if you enjoy longer interactions with patients, keep in mind that in the ED, these are often brief and varied. Ultimately, the right department for you depends on what you enjoy. Remember, nursing offers the flexibility to explore different areas once you're part of the team.
Lisa Rodriguez
Registered nurse
14
Answers
Catonsville, Maryland
Updated
Lisa’s Answer
Great question Abby. My least favorite was Med/surg. It was my first job, but it was extremely helpful for getting all the basics of patient care without it being a high stress environment. My favorite was vascular access. I didn't have a patient assignment, would go where I was needed. It was low pressure most of the time. 2nd favorite was PACU phase one. Would get patients right out of surgery, would keep them stable, give pain medication. They would go up to the floor when they were ready, so would only have them a short period of time. Can be stressful if there are complications. Would have 2 patients at the most. Some people like a fast paced type of environment like ER. You never know what is going to come thru the door. It can be very stressful. I suggest you look into every area and weigh the pros and cons of each. Good luck!
Lisa
Lisa