Distraught

Hi! I used to be a regular contributor on this site during my educational pursuits. But life happens and tends to push many things aside.

I'll share one my most unforgettable  forgetful situations: I'd been an agency/float pool med-surg nurse (LPN and RN) for many, many years. The one time I took a two-week vacation, I was so relaxed upon returning to work that I couldn't remember all the equipment I needed to start an IV. I knew I was missing something but for the life of me, I couldn't figure out what it was. So, I proceeded to start the IV, knowing that what I needed would soon come to me (probably tape or a pen to label the IV).

So, I began the process, explaining the procedure to the patient, reassuring him that I've done this a million times. I identify the site, apply the tourniquet, and prep it with the wipe. Then lo and behold, NO INTRACATH (needle)!! The patient and I got a good laugh off that one!

I was only away from the bedside for two weeks. You've been away for a number of years, if I understand correctly. For you, reading is fine but you can't 'cram' what you need.

My advice is to think about the type of work that you're doing. Brush up on key points and keep a notepad with you at all times. If questions are asked of you, write it down and ask the patient to give you a minute to go get the answer. Your patients will love the thoroughness and accurate response versus guessing.

Nearly 40 years in and I still keep that 'brain' in the pocket of my lab coat. Depending on the assignment, I will carry a clipboard (a larger brain), and explain to the patients that if they see me without it, they can ask all the questions that they want, but don't expect any answers until I have that clipboard in my hands. They love it!? 

 The things that you do repeatedly will stick, including the practice of writing down what you may have forgotten over the years. Nursing practice is just that. PRACTICE! PRACTICE! PRACTICE!….until you master the art of nursing practice. Then you can continue to practice some more.?

Shaniece, 

If you stick with it, all your skills and knowledge will return. I went from hospital bedside nursing (for 24 years) to a nurse in a mental health practice (for 6 years)-enough time to bury my clinical expertise. Now I work in a nursing home. WoW! After 1 1/2 years there, it's returning. I can totally relate. 

Review disorders system by system, or more specifically, the ailments you see in your Pts now.  You can also read some journals on the common diseases.  Review best practices on the BON website.