1 answer
McKena
Student
Brookings, South Dakota
1
Question
Updated
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How do I decided what unit of the hospital I should work at first?
I love pediatrics, I had a internship there this summer, but my end goal is to become a flight nurse. I also love ICU, PICU and the emergency room. So which should I start with as a new grad? I can float or get crossed trained but I want to have a home base.
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1 answer
Althea Duke
Certified wound, ostomy, foot care specialist
9
Answers
Monterey, California
Updated
Althea’s Answer
Hi McKena,
I love that you have so many interests — that’s a huge advantage in nursing. As a new grad, I always recommend starting with a strong foundation on a Med/Surg or high-acuity step-down unit, because that’s where you’ll build the assessment and time-management skills that follow you for the rest of your career. Once you’re confident recognizing subtle changes in patient conditions — not just what the monitors tell you — you’ll be ready to transition into critical care areas like the ICU, ER, or eventually the PICU. These specialties will sharpen your critical thinking and emergency response skills, which are essential for anyone aiming to become a flight nurse. You can always float or cross-train later, but establishing that solid home base first will set you up for success no matter which specialty you choose.
I hope this helps! And good luck with your future endeavors!!!
Althea
I love that you have so many interests — that’s a huge advantage in nursing. As a new grad, I always recommend starting with a strong foundation on a Med/Surg or high-acuity step-down unit, because that’s where you’ll build the assessment and time-management skills that follow you for the rest of your career. Once you’re confident recognizing subtle changes in patient conditions — not just what the monitors tell you — you’ll be ready to transition into critical care areas like the ICU, ER, or eventually the PICU. These specialties will sharpen your critical thinking and emergency response skills, which are essential for anyone aiming to become a flight nurse. You can always float or cross-train later, but establishing that solid home base first will set you up for success no matter which specialty you choose.
I hope this helps! And good luck with your future endeavors!!!
Althea