New Grad Night ICU vs Day Stepdown which one is better ?
Hello,
I am a recent graduate with my BSN. I have a dilemma in picking which unit is best for me to start as a new grad. I simply want something that is safe and doable. I got offered a night shift position at level 1 trauma center neuro icu and an acute step down day shift position. Upon doing my research everyone says Day shift stepdown is dangerous due to high pt ratio and high acuity. But ICU can be hard on its own ways.
Night shift Neuro ICU
\- 1 year of new grad residency
\- night shift position, no guarantee there will be day shift position open any day.
\- I have been an intern on this unit so I know how it works.
\- 6-8 months of orientation
\- night shift ICU makes similar amount of money than working day shift PCU.
\- better retirement and overall benefits.
\- 1:1, 2:1, 3:1 patient ratio
\- 24 month contract
Day shift Acute stepdown
\- day shift position
\- 5:1 pt ratio
\-12 weeks of orientation
\- 1 year of new grad residency
\- this day shift job pays better than the day shift at Neuro icu.
\- 12 month contract
Like I mentioned I want something that is safe as a new grad, I have a better work- life balance and won’t be in the trenches all the time being at work.
I understand nursing is hard, but I want something that will benefit me to grow into a confident strong nurse. I am also not in a rush to go back to school.
Please give me your best opinions and why. How any advice?