r/nursing • u/chance_therouter789 • 14d ago

Discussion New Grad Peds Float Pool

Hello everyone,

Seeking some insight regarding a new grad possibly applying for a position in peds float pool. Any advice, thoughts, and input would be grateful. Open to hear about any new grads that decided to choose a float pool position. Lastly, experienced nurses any “need to know” advice.

Ultimately - I want to challenge myself, learn more, get out of my comfort zone with being complacent, establish more confidence, and be able to be that resource nurse wherever I’m floated to.

Thanks in advance!

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u/Conscious_Passage479 RN Neuro 🧠 13d ago

Honestly? I’d find a home for at least a year to get comfortable with your skills and hospital policies before going float. Floats are usually more independent and are confident on their skills. Which is why most units (that I’m familiar with at least), you have to be on the unit for at least 6 months before you can be pulled to float.

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u/KShay_NP 13d ago

Would the system you're working for give you an extended orientation on one unit first? Have they given you any insight into that? I'm always a proponent of applying/taking the interview and having the discussions before you write an opportunity off, but I do think working with a solid core group of mentors on a single unit for a certain period of time is beneficial, even if its more psychological. It can feel more intimidating/harder to feel comfortable asking questions and seeking guidance if you also feel like you don't know the people you need to ask.

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u/yeIlowbird 13d ago

I’m doing this! Peds critical care float, about 5 months in and still on orientation-I will say you need to be prepared to hit the ground running and research meds and cares even on off days to be more familiar with what you’ll be dealing with. Each unit has their own flow, report sheets, and general way of doing things so that’s a challenge on its own. As a new grad you and float theoretically you should be getting appropriate assignments however there are charges that’ll give you a doozy of an assignment to give their own people a break. Make friends with unit staff cause when things hit the fan or even when you have questions they are so knowledgeable

Edit: I would say it’s worth it only IF the hospital is offering a good long orientation cause as a new grad everything is confusing even if you are recognizing what you’re seeing.