Do you know your patients?

[ProudMom511]

I just started a job in LTC. It seems the nurses don't know many of the diagnoses that their patients have. Being a newgrad nurse who is used to knowing each and every diagnosis that my patient has, I feel like it's a must to know your patient Hx. But again I was a student with no more than 2 patients and these nurses have up to 30 patients. How do you manage to know about your patients in LTC settings with a large nurse/patient ratio. Any input on this will be appreciated. Also, what do you think it's important for me as a new nurse to do in order to manage care safely?

[macgirl]

As everyone else has said time is key. I try to learn about 2 patients per shift. Key diagnosis on them & key history items. After 15 shifts repeat, (learn the new ones firsts) after awhile you will know thier norm for vitals, meds ect. After a few months you will have them down well.

[ProudMom511]

Thank you, my fellow nurses:)

[RN2serve]

One thing - learn to rely on your CNAs for normal behavioral, ADL and cognitive status of your pts The CNAs know them best and their information is invaluable. LISTEN to them when they tell you something's wrong.

The above is most important! My CNA have been responsible for saving lives. Also make sure you give credit where credit is due. Respect your CNA and they will respect you and make you look great.