NEEDED: words of wisdom to the new grad going into the ICU?

Specialties Cardiac

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Hello, I recently graduated with my BSN... I m going to start working in an ICU in less than two weeks. What are some basic things I should start memorizing or reviewing to know for the ICU as a new grad?

I recently worked for 5 mos out of school in an ER of a trauma center but realized the place was UNSAFE. So I do have some nursing knowledge. any words of wisdom???

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The most helpful resource that I found was the website http://www.icufaqs.org. There is a wealth of information for new graduates and ICU orientees.

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Specializes in CV Surgery Step-down.

Thank you so much for this website! I'm a nursing student and we're just starting ABG's. I was thrilled to find their notes on this!

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Specializes in Critical Care.

I would concentrate on learning good assessment skills, complete head to toe, lung sounds, heart sounds, rhythm strips. I am sure you will have classes and a good preceptor to show you the ropes. Ask a lot of questions, write down questions, to remember. Also know where to find policies. Good luck to you.

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The most helpful resource that I found was the website http://www.icufaqs.org. There is a wealth of information for new graduates and ICU orientees.

Thank you.... That site is wonderful.

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Specializes in Critical Care/ICU.

Hi Eileen Marie,

CONGRATULATIONS on your new job!

I went into the ICU right out of school. I think what really helped me was when I got home after an overwhelming day of learning (and the days will be overwhelming), I would first eat and relax a little bit and then dive into the internet or my books and journals looking up any and all information I could find about what I worked with that day. The pt dx, patho, txs, drugs, labs, *hemodynamics associated with dx, just everything! My preceptor and I would usually have the same assignment the next day and it really helped in my understanding and comprehension of what we were doing and why. I also made a list of questions that I could ask to clarify stuff.

Even if you don't have the same assignment the next shift you work, looking up this stuff in a calmer, quieter environment is a great way to drive home some points that may fly over your head at work.

*hemodynamics - get yourself a good book that focuses on hemodynamics as ICU is all about this difficult to immediately grasp area of ICU nursing.

Good Luck. I LOVE ICU and am very happy with my choice even years later.

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