Able to finish all tasks in ICU?

[luckynurse_1234]

Hi all! I have just started a new job in a TICU at a Level 1 trauma hospital. I am still in orientation but I feel like it's going to be a constant battle to get all the "tasks" done on my shift (labs, meds, assessments) on really critical patients. For example, my last shift the patient had several meds, q2h lab draws, and q2h neuro assessments and then their respiratory status crumped (alredy vented). I think in all the confusion I forgot to chart the last neuro assessment even though I did perform it and I'm freaking out.

With experience does it get better? Do you ever get every little thing done and go home with a clear conscience?

[metal_m0nk, BSN, RN]

Another voice here recommending staying on top of your tasks and charting throughout your shift. I am relatively new to critical care and I notice that many of my seasoned colleagues are the types who are always scrambling at the end of the shift. And if they happen to get an admission or some unplanned event happens, the scrambling is even worse. I often get dirty looks at the end of the shift when I go around asking if anyone needs help because I have tied up my few loose ends. I'm not the type to stay late to chat and chart. I like to get the job done safely and efficiently and get the hell home.

Anyway, to sum up, get as much done as you can when you can. Use your down time to get ahead if it is at all possible. Leave yourself time for the crap to hit the fan, so that when it does, you won't be worrying about what you didn't get done while you're trying to manage a stressful, unexpected situation.

Good luck!

[Nurse_Jessie]

I agree with the previous posters on the importance of staying on top of your documentation as much as possible. I have a fairly detailed brain sheet and I check things off as they are done, so I know at a glance what is left for me to do.

Also, group your activities as much as possible and make sure you have all your supplies before you go in the room. It does get easier. I've been on my own in the ICU for 7 months now and my time management is so much better than I imagined it could have been during my orientation when I felt like I scrambling constantly to get it all done. I still have shifts that are crazy, but being organized makes the craziness easier to handle.