Crash course in quick responses

[poppy07]

What would you do if...?

Pt HR in 150s, RR 40-50?

Pt on NC 4L

B/P stable 115/89

How do you know when to change source of Oxygen? Any guidelines?

How can you tell the difference btwn ST and SVT?

What do you do?

What do you do if pt is not breathing, has a pulse?

What if pt's HR is 15-30, but you can't feel a pulse...do you grab a doppler?

What precautions do you take when pt is on a really high amount of PEEP on vent? Do you avoid moving them to prevent pneumos?

[bigsyis]

But, I had a six month orientation with critical care classes.

This is the usual orientation in our area, too. I would contact a Contract Law Attorney to see what your rights are. If you don't already have it, get Malpractice insurance.

[angelique777]

I think the advise given is good. I just wanted to add. If your on this unit and cant leave or switch and cant get good orientation but you cant leave the situation. Then be proactive like your doing now. Take an ACLS course on your own. I did right out of school. I took the course cause I wanted to work on my unit. So got the book AND studied the book found an ACLS with really good instructors that review basic rhythms along with interventions and found it very helpful. I also looked on line for online tutorial for basic dysrhythmias. Found the course by posting right here on allnurses.com. Teach your self all you can. Watch your coworkers. When one of there patient has a problem find out what it was and what they did and why helps a lot to see the patient see the intervention and see results. I wish you the best but like another person states based on your questions it seems your under prepared for the level of care required and that is scary. However if your asking questions you care about what you do and I am sure you will learn. Take care wish you the best

[EmmaG, RN]

So do you guys have any suggestions since when I talk to the Mgr and Charge RN, both saying "you'll never feel ready"..."what do you need a year of orientation"...etc. and "you're never really on your own"...

Bet these idiots wonder why they can't retain staff, too.

I agree with the above posts. You most certainly can quit. A contract is by definition between (at least) two parties. It would appear that they have not fulfilled their part of the agreement. The advice to speak with a contract law attorney is a great idea; most will provide a free consultation.