I thought that this would be interesting. As we have new graduates beginning to orient in our respective units, do any of you have any fool-proof pieces of advice for them? If you could only give them 1 "rule" to always obey as a nurse, what would it be??
Actually, I have 2 that stand out in my mind.
#1- Always go with your gut feeling. Minor and major hunches alike. For example, if you have a hunch that you need to check on a patient, check their BP again, etc., then do it. I have had many instances in which I think of something that I need to do, for whatever reason don't do it, then end up wishing that I had.
#2- Always take at least one more wash-cloth than you think you're going to need!! (This also applies to other supplies as well).
C'mon. I know all of you guys can add to this list!
Remember that patients are people, you might be here one day, what goes out comes back, a smile lowers your blood pressure and laughter lowers your stress levels and we can all do with a liitle less stress and a little more laughter. Good luck!
When you are feeling overwhelmed, stop, take a deep breath, blow it out slowwwwwly, then "do the next thing". It might be get a BP, give a med, clean someone's bottom, hold a hand. Whatever is the next thing that needs doing. One thing at a time.
Take every day as a learning experience. Every day I make it a point to learn some thing new. After 12 years it still works. Somedays the only thing I have learned is, HOPE I NEVER HAVE TO DO THAT AGAIN.
the point is to be flexible everyday.
Absolutely, and be forgiving of your mistakes, because you learn from them, and will (hopefully) never repeat them.
I agree to on the busy days do one thing at a time and don't feel bad that you didn't have time to fluff a pillow because you were dealing with chest pain- that is not your fault.
But on a busy day, if you don't have time to think, I scrap the documentation, and do the best for my patients. That is what I can live with, and studies have shown that if a family member has a good relationship with you, and believes you are doing your best, that is what matters to them too.
I have never been sued (in 13y) and never (that I know of) had a family make out a written complaint. I've had complaints, but they have been to me personally, and resolved at least partially, at the time. It works- really.
Comfortable shoes, AND stay hydrated. When I first started, I'd skimp on the fluids because I didn't want to have to go at an inopportune time. But there was a LOT less pain and fatigue when I had a decent amount of water in me!
Brownms46
2,394 Posts
I agree with that one..100%!!