Cardiovascular Intensive Care Nurse Careers with BSN

Wouldn't It Be Easier Just to Pursue an Associate's of Science Degree in Nursing?

That is a valid option. However, there are several benefits which await you if you decide to pursue your BSN Degree. RNs who have their BSN degrees are among the most sought after nursing professionals. For example, if you are competing with another new RN who has a BSN and you possess an Associate’s of Science Degree, potential employers will tend to look more favorably upon the other candidate. As nursing care becomes increasingly challenging, and more complex care is being provided to sicker people, employers look for highly educated candidates to fill nursing positon.

Nursing degree programs are available which afford LPNs with opportunities to complete their BSN programs in a shorter period of time than it traditionally took. These programs award you credit for your LPN education. By attending college for approximately one extra year, you will be better prepared to enter the exciting and challenging field of cardiovascular nursing.

What Are Some Benefits of CVICU Nursing?

Job opportunities for critical care nurses are growing. If you ever want to work as a travel nurse, becoming a CVICU nurse will afford you opportunities to travel throughout the world.

CVICU nurses are among the most highly paid nursing professionals. The average salary for experienced CVICU nurses who work in large metropolitan areas is $112,000 annually. That is significantly higher than the pay rate that  most other nurses receive.

Depending upon the facility, you may be able to work in a CVICU immediately after you graduate or you may need to gain experience for a year or so, prior to working in a CVICU. Since CVICU nursing requires an exceptionally high level of expertise, orientation programs for new critical care nurses may last for several months.  Many facilities offer substantial sign on bonuses for nurses who commit to work in CVICU units.

Being a CVICU nurse affords you with opportunities to work in an array of intensive care units. You may choose to work in an intensive care unit which provides services to people who suffer from myocardial infarctions and congestive heart failure. Some CVICU nurses prefer to work on units that provide care to patients who have just had complex cardiovascular surgical procedures. As a CVICU nurse, you may decide to specialize in pediatric cardiology. Cardiovascular nursing is a broad field.

What Should I Do If I Want to Obtain a Bachelor's Degree and Become Licensed as a Registered Nurse?

Take steps today to further your education. Explore educational opportunities that are offered in your area and online. If you cannot make a full time commitment now, begin by taking one or two courses each semester. Many schools have rolling admission policies which will allow you to begin coursework within a few weeks.

During you BSN educational experience, you will be required to complete a practicum. See if opportunities are available in local intensive care or cardiac stepdown units

Becoming a CVICU Nurse

The demand for CVICU nurses is consistently growing.   By furthering your education, you will be prepared to care for very sick people and receive a salary which is well above the amount that nurses in other fields earn.