Common terms and dx's in ICU

Specialties MICU

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Specializes in LTC, Telemetry.

I start my orientation for the hospital ICU next week, as a CNA. My background is mainly med/tele and LTC.

What are some abbreviations or "nurse speak" for on unit procedures, dx's, equipment etc. I would like to have a clue before walking onto the unit.

I know what q2, prn, stat, etc are. Looking for more unit specific stuff. KWIM?

Thanks so much!!!

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Specializes in CCU, ICU.

Hi, i don't know if i'd be able to help or not (i work in the uk) but if there's anything specific you have in mind i'll try. Can i ask your advice too? I'm planning on coming to the states when i get through the NCLEX and have been looking at jobs. I see Telemetry is often advertised. I see you have experience there - what does telemetry all encompass? I used to work in CCU & wondered if it might be an option for me? Thanks & please ask if there's anything you think i can help with :)

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Specializes in Not too many areas I haven't dipped into.
Hi, i don't know if i'd be able to help or not (i work in the uk) but if there's anything specific you have in mind i'll try. Can i ask your advice too? I'm planning on coming to the states when i get through the NCLEX and have been looking at jobs. I see Telemetry is often advertised. I see you have experience there - what does telemetry all encompass? I used to work in CCU & wondered if it might be an option for me? Thanks & please ask if there's anything you think i can help with :)

Tele in a lot of hospitals are med-surg patients that require a cardiac monitor.

In other more agressive hospitals, these pts can be on non-titrating drips (in my experience)

If you worked in a CCU, this should be relatively easy for you as far as knowledge base goes.

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