clinical--dont know how to use automated VS "machine"

[mollysaunt]

Hi Everyone,

Tomorrow is the second day of med-surg (adult health) clinical for me which is my first "real" clinical following fundamentals as a first semester student. I realize this is ridiculous, but on my first day I did not catch how to take automated VS. Sorry, not sure of the properly terminology. My clinical sites uses the automated cuffs and the screen rather than the individual unit that can be wheeled around. The nurse I worked under zipped through the VS quickly, and I didn't get an opportunity to practice myself. During first semester, we took VS by hand and did not practice with automated devices.

What's the best way to let my nurse tomorrow know that I am unable to take VS and need a refresher? Or, should I be asking my clinical instructor?

Also, just overall, I feel as if I was thrown in to do tasks (albeit very basic tasks, e.g., VS, bathing, assessment) without much guidance. I understand the nurses are very busy and we should be self-starters, but there has to be a first time that I learn how to do these things. Any thoughts, tips would be much appreciated. Thank you!

[NYbabyRN, BSN, RN]

I did not know how to use a dynamap during my 1st clinical day either and I felt stressed about it! Don't feel dumb, just be honest and say you have never used one before.

[RunBabyRN]

Definitely ask! There will be a lot of stuff where it feels like you're being thrown in unprepared, but you will find the balance between asking for help and drawing on what you know and pushing yourself. Remember that your number one priority is safety, for both you and the patient. Don't be afraid to ask THEM for guidance, too- if there's a good spot for an IV, how many pills they can take at one time, how to care for something they've had for a long time. Sometimes patients know more about their diagnoses than nurses do, and they can be a wealth of info. :)

[mollysaunt]

Thanks so much for the tips.. again, the support on allnurses is so helpful!