CPNE Patient Care

Nursing Students Excelsior

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Specializes in ER, OB/Gyn.

So I am prepping for my CPNE (with EC) and the thing I am most nervous about is:

the unknown patient problem.

What happens if I get a patient diagnosed with something that I know nothing about?! I haven't done peds since I was my clinicals when I was nursing school (LVN) which is about 7 years ago now. The study guide states CEs are there only to observe. Now I know they won't let us jeopardize the patient...but what happens with the unknown?

Specializes in Med/Surg, LTACH, LTC, Home Health.

You would verify the id band as usual while asking mom or dad to state the name and date of birth. From what I'm told, the biggest thing with a PEDs patient is the calculations and weighing diapers for output. Otherwise, swaddling (if an infant) usually does the trick. Toddlers are more receptive if you let them handle the stethoscope first, or whatever equipment you're using with them...if appropriate. Sorry, but that's all I can contribute to your question. I've never in my 28-year career had to work with kids, toddlers, or infants. For that, I am truly thankful! The hospital that I chose was one that I knew didn't have a PEDs unit and would have an adult PCS in its place. ;)

Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.
So I am prepping for my CPNE (with EC)
Post has been moved to the Excelsior College forum with the goal of attracting replies from other EC students.
Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

You have the resources of the unit at your disposal during PCSs, including any books on the unit. Most patients you will see are stable, alert and oriented, etc. You can also ask the parents about any diagnosis and use them as a resource as well. With the number of diseases and syndromes out there, we can't know all of them. There is no shame in saying something like, "I am not very familiar with Charcot-Marie-Tooth, can you tell me more about how it affects you/your child?"

Specializes in ER, OB/Gyn.

Thank you so much @Pixie.RN!

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They give you pretty basic patients. More then likely you won't get something crazy. I can't even think of an example. You have resources to.use but pretty much your not there to cure them. You do your assigned areas of care and get out of there. Besides giving meds and documenting assessment you are doing cna work. It's not difficult, just nerve racking.

Specializes in ER, OB/Gyn.

Thank you! Lord help me haha

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