Developing Steady Hands

[zorabanks]

Hi All,

I started HD Dialysis recently. Really enjoying it thus far, however, my hands tremble when I'm cannulating and doing catheter. I know that it is nervousness and that it will get better with time, but I feel so bad and a little unprofessional. Any suggestions on how to develop steady hands during the growing process? Tips for relaxation on the job? Thanks

[Guttercat, ASN, RN]

Hi All,

I started HD Dialysis recently. Really enjoying it thus far, however, my hands tremble when I'm cannulating and doing catheter. I know that it is nervousness and that it will get better with time, but I feel so bad and a little unprofessional. Any suggestions on how to develop steady hands during the growing process? Tips for relaxation on the job? Thanks

It goes away. :)

Expect a few "relapses" along the way when you are dealing with a particulary cantankerous or mean patient, but eventually you will be unflappable.

When dealing with a particularly difficult stick or patient, I'll suggest three sure-fire means for calming nerves.

1.) Approach the task with a postiive attitude and a plan, the "plan" in part being that you will ask for help in choosing a stick site if you have any doubts.

2.) Go into it by giving yourself permission to fail. I don't mean carelessness, but rather sometimes just reminding yourself that the world will not end if you miss the stick can release those jitters you feel.

3.) When beginning the actual cannulation, focus on the task. So: stop, breath, think, feel the site, breath, double check your site choice, breath, and then commit!

Don't worry, it does become second nature over time.

[zorabanks]

Guttercat,

thank you so much for taking the time to respond to my question. I will take your advice!

[NDXUFan]

I would have to agree, second nature over time.

[awheat]

I am entering my 3rd month at an outpatient clinic. I still tense up at the thought of the stick, but now when I get it, I think "yep, got it!" instead of "oh, thank goodness I got it". This is not to say I do not pray before starting each day that the Good Lord be with me and my patients for the treatments. :)

[zorabanks]

Thanks "awheat", glad to know that I'm in good company & that it will get better. Are you still in orientation? I am almost done orienting with CCHT, next will be with RN. May God continue to bless you!