Well here it goes. I have been a nurse for just under a year now and for the most part I have enjoyed it but I have been very stressed out at times to. The problem is I was started on 3rd shift on an alzheimers unit which only has 14 Residents. I know my Residents very well and know when they have medical needs. The problem is, they have been pulling me to cover other halls, where I don't know the patients and I am concerned that my assessment skills are not where they should be. Does anybody have any suggestions on how to develop my assessment skills? I would be greatful for any help.

are you able to practice with a more experienced nurse to watch after reviewing assessment skills? this is the only thing i can think will work for me since i am a visual and tactile learner. what kind of learner are you??? there are many resources available to build your assessment skills to include workshops (try the local hospital), classes (try the local college), books (check online for outdated cheap pocket guides and your local library for textbooks), journals (try the local library), videos (i have a cd that has assessment skills on video but videos are also available free on the internet), interactive software, experienced nurses, etc.