New job as a progressive care unit/tele RN

Specialties CCU

Updated:   Published

Hi all!

I've recently been hired on a PCU/tele unit after two years in the sub-acute setting. I am SO excited for this opportunity and equally nervous! I have to take a test prior to starting.. are there certain things I should brush up on? Does anyone have any resources or advice that may be helpful?

Thanks in advance!

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Specializes in Cardiology.

Types of arrythmias, meds, lab values, the type of pt's you see on your floor.

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I love working at a progressive care unit! It depends on the type of patients you will have. But as a general rule, know acls, what to do when a pt goes into a-fib / a-flutter, or if they develop respiratory issues. My patients can become unstable very quickly. On my unit we have mostly cardiothoracic patients (cabg, valve repair/replacement, lobectomy, esophagectomy). You have to know how to manage chest tubes, PCAs, epidurals, ventilators, and several drips. Sometimes you have a very unstable patient, no availabe room for them on the ICU, and you still have 2 other patients. It can be stressful at times but lots of learning opportunities.

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Thank you both for that information!

my pre-employment physical and examinations are completed successfully. I am sad to leave my current coworkers, but definitely ready to try something new. I've been trying to brush up on different cardiac conditions/procedures/meds just so I fee more comfortable. They're giving me a 3 month orientation with 2 months on day shift and one month on night shift. I will be starting on the night shift and hopefully getting a transfer on to days as soon as it is available. My first day is in two weeks. :)

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Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.

Sounds like you will be getting an adequate orientation. Congratulations on your new job! Be prepared to fly.

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Wow, 3 months of orientation! I only got 2 months when I started on a progressive care unit, and I was new grad. You will do great, nothing to worry.

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That is music to my ears!

Having had only subacute experience, I felt so unprepared and actually doubted myself for ever being ready for this. Cardiac was never my strongest point or weakest, but easily one of the areas of nursing that I was intrigued by so I feel blessed.

All of your kind words are easing my nerves more than you'd believe, so I thank you!

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