Advice for NS entering Clinical on Orthopedic Trauma Surgery Ward

[cathmandu]

Hi!

I am a second year nursing student, entering our first acute care clinical this month...

I have been placed in an Orthopedic Trauma Surgery ward! I am super excited but nervous.

What specific topics/skills should I brush up on?

Specific Lab values to know for this type of unit?

Most common procedures/medications?

If you've been on a ward like this, give me some advice/tips or what to expect?

Our college has given us no information and that scares me a little bit.

[direw0lf, BSN]

Hi, this sounds exciting for you! And even though your college isn't giving you info, you're going to pick up on info fast once you're there.

Some basic topics I can help with (not sure if this is too basic)

Know your opioids and side effects - resp depression!

Know ondansetron, metoclopramide and scopalamine patch (for nausea from surgery/pain meds)

Compartment syndrome is very important (know the 5 P's - pain, paresthesia, pulse, pallor, paralysis)

PE s/s necessary to know also - common with a hip fracture/replacement

Body mechanics

Tractions

Watch WBC trends (infection)

Except slightly lower than normal Hgb, hct, RBCs at first but watch to see if they trend up or worsen, many patients will need blood transfusions so brush up on that too!

Be aware of comorbidities such as pulmonary and heart disease, and patients with DM.

Good luck!