What are the chances of a new grad getting an ICU position?

These days chances are good that you could get an ICU position. Due to COVID and the nursing shortage, positions that in the past would have been difficult for a new grad are now attainable. Talk to the hospital you are interested in working for and see what they have available and/or what advice they could give.

Yes, but you need to take steps to prepare yourself.

1. Join local AACN.
2. If you can, obtain ACLS while in achool.
3. Take critical care CEUs now.
4. Talk to your instructors and NMs about shadowing in ICUs.

Good Luck.

I got hired into a new grad program for the ICU right out of school, so ICU is really all I know. Don’t listen to older nurses telling you to get floor experience, go for the unit you want. I also do not suggest going into traveling until you have +1 year of experience off orientation, most won’t hire you regardless of job shortages. With that said find a new grad program, the ICU is an overwhelming place to start and new grad programs offer more time, training, and hand holding. 4 years in and I still learning new things all the time.

I just resigned from an ICU at a nationally recognized hospital to go to a traveling nurse position. I negotiated my conditions and salary based on my ICU experience. They hire new grads. I believe you will have an easier time now. It may be rough, but stick it out.

We've had a new grad program in our Surgical/trauma ICU for 15 years or so. usually take 2 at a time. It is an intense program of on the job school/training. We tend to take grads that have worked as critical care techs and have some experience in the ICU. We are a large teaching hospital in Boston Ma.

I have seen some sketchiness working on an ICU as a tech from new grads b/c of lack of support. I think if the residency is very extensive and they do not let you go on your own too soon, it will be a good thing for you (if you like being uncomfortable, often). I plan to start on a PCU as an RN new grad to become use to the higher acuity then med-surg but with bumpers :)

100% possible. Go for it!

The better question is should a new grad take an ICU position? The answer for the most part is no. A good foundation in the basics is the start to a successful start in the ICU. A few will succeed despite a good foundation most will find it very difficult at best.

Chances are very limited

With the nursing shortage, most hospital will hire a new grad in an ICU position. Good Luck.