Returning to the ED?

Specialties Emergency

Published

A question for any ED RNs who have left bedside nursing and then returned later. How difficult was it for you? I was an ED RN for 15 years and left the bedside 5 years ago, I am currently the ED Care Coordinator in a level II trauma center, but I don't know if I am going to continue at this position. I might have an opportunity to go back to the bedside and have a nice increase in pay... any thoughts?

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Specializes in ICU, Trauma, CCT,Emergency, Flight, OR Nursing.

Trust me, its like riding a bike. It will come back to you within a matter or days. I think the biggest challenges for most RN's returning to the bedside/ direct patient care is the documentation requirements and Core measures , patient safety goals etc (i.e all the compliance stuff) . It's that which takes up most of ones time these days. Within a week or two you will be aware of all the new drugs that are being used and that you will need to read up on in your own time to ensure you are up to speed on their effects, side effects etc, general doses etc. Another thing which is big in ED nursing these days are Patient treatment protocols/ nurse initiated treatment plans. This includes order sets and the ability of the RN to initiate care before the MD even gets to see that patient. You will be fine and you'll get into the swing of things very quickly. Good luck !

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Thanks Ricky! I am used to order sets, and autonomy. I worked on the East Coast for 7 years and we had complete autonomy way back when. I moved home to CO 10 years ago and couldn't believe how backwards things were here! LOL

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