from ER to PACU

Specialties PACU

Published

Specializes in Med-Surg, Research, ER, PACU, Pheresis.

Hi all, i'm getting burned out in the level 1 trauma center ED that I currently work in---i'm scheduled to shadow in the PACU in the next couple of weeks. What can you guys tell me about transitioning from ED Charge Nurse to PACU? Thanks to all who respond.

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Hi all, i'm getting burned out in the level 1 trauma center ED that I currently work in---i'm scheduled to shadow in the PACU in the next couple of weeks. What can you guys tell me about transitioning from ED Charge Nurse to PACU? Thanks to all who respond.

All I can say is that last year my unit hired 3 nurses for contract work who had no PACU experience whatsoever. They were all 3 solid ER only experienced nurses. We badly needed the help so my manager hired them despite having no PACU or ICU experience.

All 3 did great with minimal orientation and one of them stayed on as permanent staff and continues to do very well as a PACU nurse.

Yes they had their challenges such as lack of familiarity and skill with things like swans and vent trichs but they caught on in time.

After working with these 3 ER RN's in PACU for a summer, I would have to come to the conclusion that ER nurses can transition into PACU quite smoothly.

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Specializes in Med surg, Critical Care, LTC.

I'm an ER nurse who moved to PACU. I had no difficulty with the transition, and got to utilize my skills. We still do cardiac monitoring, and I've had more the one post op MI. The biggest problem I have is Art LInes. We NEVER used them in the ER, and we use the infrequently in PACU, so I have a difficulty time remembering how to zero them, but otherwise, I'm doing great.

I HATE WITH AN ABSOLUTE PASSION havig to take call. But it's part of the territory. I'm a person with insomnia - so taking call is torture for me. Can't take my meds.

You'll do fine.

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Specializes in Post-Anesthesia Care.

You should transition well. ED nursing is a solid background for PACU, theart lines, ventrich's and other things will come with experience. Learning the pain management and types of surgeries will be new. I had ED experience and transitioned well. I work with four othe ED nurses that have been in our PACU for a few years. They love it. You get gratitude instead of attitude. Good for you. Enjoy it.

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Specializes in Med-Surg, Research, ER, PACU, Pheresis.

thanks to all who responded--i did apply and accept the position in the PACU---scheduled to start on aug 18th--excited about learning new things--will keep you all posted

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I am 34, left the ER after 13 years and am now in PACU. Love it. That simple. I still use all my skills, and learn something every day. I am lucky that the PACU i am in has such a strong comradorie.

i hope your job change works as well as mind did.

Good luck!

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