I’m super unhappy with my current job, but I have only been in it for 9 months. I’ve done ICU for 5.5 (4.5ish in previous ICU). This ICU just isn’t for me. I’m burned out. How bad is it to look for another job before I hit a year? I want to try L&D.

Do it! Life is to short to be miserable.

If you have done almost a year in ICU. Try to Stay there for a year.

I’m assuming you looked at causes of your unhappiness. Sitting down and talking to your mentor or nurse manager. Has their been a change in the unit, new management guidelines, lack of staff etc. I have found this effective because in my efforts I created my own unhappiness with unrealistic expectations. That being said if you are are in a toxic environment and need to leave to save your self. Then do so. But L & D is one of those areas where you wait for someone to die…or retire. So while your waiting get yourself certified , educated whatever to show the manager your serious. Offer to work OT on the unit to show your serious. An experienced ICU nurse would be a welcome addition. LD has their own crisis’