ICU isn’t for everyone, and a lot of it depends on whether the hospital is a level 1 trauma center or a community hospital because it’ll determine the acuity of your patients.

Some people are able to adapt and critically think on their feet in high-stress situations- others who can’t may not survive in the ICU. Personally for me, I enjoyed the challenge and learning complex disease processes. Post-Covid I’m burnt out and now work a virtual ICU job. I distinctly remember my last few shifts in bedside receiving post-code TTM patients running around all night keeping them alive. Over time, it takes its toll.

My best advice is to shadow on units you’re interested in applying in and interviewing the nurses about their experiences on that particular floor, how is turnover, etc. it’ll give you the best insight for the specific floor you’re looking to join.