Q & A with our Chief Nursing Officer: Tips for a Career in ICU Nursing

Gifted’s Chief Nursing Officer, Maggie Candon, RN, answered a few common questions ICU nurses may have when they're first starting in this specialty. Whether you're working with Gifted Healthcare for the first time or you're a veteran, it's good to remember these key points of careers in ICU Nursing.

How can ICU nurses benefit from working with a company like Gifted Healthcare?

As a nurse you really do have a ton of choices right at your fingertips when you work with Gifted. Whether you’re looking for an assignment in a bustling destination city like Las Vegas, a trending and exciting city like Seattle, or a winter wonderland like Vail, Colorado, Gifted’s got a contract for you.

It is all about what you’re looking for in your career. Some nurses prefer a specific facility over a specific location.

Your next assignment could be at a top-notch medical facility participating in cutting-edge work. Maybe you want to work in a university medical center affiliated with a medical school or a small rural hospital working with local doctors within a community. Here at Gifted Healthcare, we have the connections to get you there.

Is it possible to get an ICU position right out of school?

Currently nurses can’t get an ICU position right out of nursing school.

We like our nurses to start elsewhere before moving into ICU, however, we may be creating a new graduate program here at Gifted to help get you to the ICU quicker. Check back with Gifted in the future for details.

What is the best way for an RN to transition into an ICU position?

A couple of years on a medical surgical floor gives you the chance to put into play everything you have learned and build confidence in your ability. Additionally, knowledge from a preceptorship program with classroom time and hands on training can prepare you for success in an ICU position.

What kinds of facilities and locations do ICU nurses work?

You name it. We’ve got positions in any environment: Large teaching hospitals, large urban facilities, community hospitals, and small, rural hospitals.

How does an day ICU shift differ from a night ICU shift?

Day ICU nurses have all ancillary services around throughout their shift. The day nurse travels with her patients—such as to the x-ray department or for other tests. When large doctor groups make rounds it can be like a Mardi Gras parade—there’s always a lot going on.

At night the lights dim. Patients need rest. Patients in critical condition might need all hands on deck. One of the challenges can be to maintain that quiet atmosphere even with a lot going on.

If you have other questions about obtaining an ICU nursing position through Gifted Healthcare, contact us today! We're happy to answer any questions you may have. 

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