[packerbacker]

So I just accepted a job in the surgical ICU. YEAH!!!! I am so excited but scared to death. Any advice for a newbie? Any hints, organizational ideas or prayers would be greatly appreciated. HA!

[racing-mom4]

I too am a new ICU nurse, my advice is to listen listen listen and watch watch watch. Also if given the option, take on the most challenging of patients during your orientation. Best to deal with the sickest of people while you still have a mentor. Dont be afraid to ask questions: the pharmacist/RT , even ask the Dr if your unsure.

Make sure you also thank those who help you and any chance you get volunteer to help your fellow nurses, what comes around goes around so if you have the time, assist them with their patients this will come back to you tenfold. Same with the unlic help, if your lucky enough to have a CNA on your unit, help them too, you want to stay on their good side!!

When you have to call a Dr in the night, I always thank them for calling me back so soon (even if they didnt) have ready any and all labs/med list and what you have done so far for the problem your calling them on. Then write down what you want the goal of the conversation to be. Refer to this when you talk to them, then ask what parameters they want to be called again on.

Main thing is if you dont know, ask. Much better for all involved to help you at the start vs trying to help once your involved and in need of help ASAP.