I'm a new LVN just started on telemetry about a 2-3 weeks ago. I feel totally and completely lost. I feel what I learned in school was only about a tenth of what I needed. I already goofed up and missed a dr.s order for integrilin (it was later given by the cath lab) and this patient later coded twice but the seasoned nurses tell me the patient would've coded anyway do to the large amount of blockage, but I am still absolutley terrified now. I am afraid of the doctors. I hate it. I loved taking care of my patient as a cna, but now I'm so afraid. I'm just wondering when does it get better or if it does. Is it just me? Does everyone go through this?

It takes close to a year to begin being comfortable in a new position, and we do learn from our mistakes. If we were pristine perfect as soon as we left school, then, we would not learn that we even made an error, or understand the consequences. I have been an LPN for two years, and each new setting I went to, I was just as afraid and unsure as you are speaking of. I freely admit that I am not familiar with certain things and ask questions. In addition, when I am in new areas, I go home and read about new things or update myself that need to be cleared up.

Give it time, you'll be fine. And, even the more senior nurses do not know everything. As long as they are not blackballing you or trying to set you up, then, relax and try to absorb your new job and career. Good luck!!

Tele is a lot of responsibility right out of the gate. I'm not surprised that you're overwhelmed. But look at it this way - the other nurses are encouraging you, and telling you that it isn't your fault. That's a good thing.

:)

I am a new nurse too, I became licensed in April, and I have worked on a telemetry floor since July. I agree, it is hard, but I love it. See if your facility offers any classes to help you recognize rhythms. Mine does and I'm definitely going the next time they are scheduled. Also, when (or IF) you have spare time at work, visit the monitor techs. They are a great resource. Good Luck! :)

I feel the same! I am training and I feel like a huge idiot! Some days I wonder what I was doing going into nursing! I love it more than any other job I have ever had. I am happy and I known I will eventually become a confidant nurse! I have only been working for 3 weeks! I work at the VA and work in the extended care and rehab but I love it! We have a large variety of pt's and I feel overwhelmed when I don't know when to concerned or when I should feel comfortable. I feel during training that I am more willing to take out the garbage than do the tx's. I know when I am own my own I will learn more but until then......I need to write lists...go with my instincts and ask questions! I have tons of supportive co-workers..I just fear they will think I am stupid!

Best of luck to you, they say being scared can be helpfull they help you be checking of yourself...when you have a "cocky" personality then people may not be as cautious!

Best of luck to you!

I agree that it takes about a year to have the confidence in your skills and in tackling anything new. Telemetry IS complicated and its not something that is taught in detail through the program. Ive been an LVN for 5 years, and it wasn't until taking ACLS that I "got the picture". I mean, sure I know what NSR is and what is minorly "abnormal", but I wanted to know what is "WHOA....vitals and crash cart by the door now, just in case!" and of course to know if anything is medically induced/needed

I think we all feel that once we actually startworking, that we only learned "basics" during school. It's true what they say, "you wont start learning until you start working".

So, your not alone in this and its NOT uncommon. :)

Hang in there. Its a never-ending learning process, and do NOT be satisfied with the occasional mandatory inservices/CEU's....educate yourself every chance you get. The internet is a great source. KEEP LEARNING any way you can.

Good luck!