3 answers
Jazmin
Student
Pembroke Pines, Florida
1
Question
Updated
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What steps can I take during and after an accelerated nursing program to strengthen my skills, build experience, and improve my chances of becoming a well prepared RN in specialities like oncology, cardiology, or even the ICU. ?
I completed my first Bachelors in Health Science and will now be completing my second degree in Nursing.
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3 answers
Jo Ann Paparelli
RN
4
Answers
Yulee, Florida
Updated
Jo Ann’s Answer
Hi Jazmine,
I would suggest you start by working on a MedSurg unit for about 2 years. This will give you a great deal of clinical experience, and strengthen your theoretical and practical skills. You will also be exposed to a large variety of health conditions, and will give you a better idea of which areas you are drawn to.
Continue your education. Get as much time in the lab as you can, and practice your practical skills.
I would suggest you start by working on a MedSurg unit for about 2 years. This will give you a great deal of clinical experience, and strengthen your theoretical and practical skills. You will also be exposed to a large variety of health conditions, and will give you a better idea of which areas you are drawn to.
Jo Ann recommends the following next steps:
Shelley DeReu RN, BSN, CNMT
Nuclear Medicine Technologist, Registered Nurse and Clinical Research Monitor
16
Answers
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Shelley’s Answer
Congratulations Jazmin for getting into an accelerated nursing program. I completed my BSN this way as well. Your program will be faster than conventional nursing programs but with your previous BS degree completed, you will be up for the challenge.
First make it through the program. Head down and truly understand the material to the best of your ability.
Each specialty you mentioned has it's own unique needs when working bedside. During clinicals, you will find out quickly which one interests you most. I commend you for wanting to be well prepared as a new nurse, but when you do get your first nursing job, give yourself grace to combine your book smarts with the work experience you are developing with your patients. Gaining experience from actually doing nursing tasks and learning from your co-workers will help develop your skills for your patient demographic.
Develop good work relationships with your co-workers, your patients and axillary staff and you will develop your own processes that fit best with your work environment.
Get the job in the specialty you want so you work with the medications, equipment, physicians and patients that interest you most. Best of Luck.
First make it through the program. Head down and truly understand the material to the best of your ability.
Each specialty you mentioned has it's own unique needs when working bedside. During clinicals, you will find out quickly which one interests you most. I commend you for wanting to be well prepared as a new nurse, but when you do get your first nursing job, give yourself grace to combine your book smarts with the work experience you are developing with your patients. Gaining experience from actually doing nursing tasks and learning from your co-workers will help develop your skills for your patient demographic.
Develop good work relationships with your co-workers, your patients and axillary staff and you will develop your own processes that fit best with your work environment.
Get the job in the specialty you want so you work with the medications, equipment, physicians and patients that interest you most. Best of Luck.
Martin Schoen
APRN
387
Answers
Ocala, Florida
Updated
Martin’s Answer
Focus on the generalities of nursing first so you have a good foundation in which to explore other specialty areas. Usually working on a med/surg floor after graduation will help you focus on areas you enjoy, gain greater expertise in, and offer many variety.