Calling all Open Heart RNs...Please help

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  1. This is a discussion on Calling all Open Heart RNs...Please help in Cardiac Nursing, part of Nursing Specialties ... I'm a new Nurse in a Cardiac Internship program and will begin my last rotation in a few days which...

    by Apr 12, '10
    I'm a new Nurse in a Cardiac Internship program and will begin my last rotation in a few days which will be on an Open Heart floor.

    I'll be working with patients that have just received some type of open heart surgery or transplant. I'm wanting to know what are some typical protocol orders that I should be familiar with, along with typical meds that are given on this floor...and any other words of wisdom you may want to share concerning this type of floor or patient population.

    Thanks for your help!
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    by **All Heart RN** Apr 12, '10 12:47 pm
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  4. Apr 25, '10 by
    I started out as a new grad in the CVICU, as well. We do OHS here, and I was oriented to fresh hearts about six months ago. I have been an RN for almost 2 years, now. Let me start out by saying welcome to the lifestyle, and you are perfectly capable of being a fantastic heart nurse. It's big and scary at first, but you will soon establish your own rhythm and routine and start feeling more comfortable.

    Each hospital manages their patients slightly differently, but the main things I would be at least moderately familiar with would be electrolyte replacement, vasopressors, inotropes, and insulin drips (though those protocols vary widely facility to facility). If you are not already familiar with your facilities Swan/PA catheters, study them. Learn what filling pressures are desired and your cardiac surgeon's preferences. All of that will come with time and experience.

    Relax, take a deep breath, and enjoy. You have just dove into a specialty that is as intriguing as it is complicated. Good luck with orientation!
    Last edit by 1smartrn on Apr 25, '10