OMG, I just finished my first weekend of orientation on the unit.....and I loved it! I don't think there's anywhere else in the hospital that I'd want to work after experiencing this. All the staff was helpful, relaxed, friendly and welcomed me with open arms....a very supportive environment. I didn't start the shift with seven patients, which is a big plus.
Even though they were "easy" on me this weekend, I can definately see where it can get hectic even with only 1-3 pts. My preceptor was very grateful that I was there Sat night due to two busy pts out of the three (one was a new vent admit)...the third was a stable. I took the stable one for her and followed her for the other two. I've learned a lot already....vent pts are nice. (Those that have had them know exactly what I mean, don't you?)
ICU ROCKS!!
Anne