eager to move on from med/surg, want to be in the er

hollysunshine · Aug 29, 2005

I was in your position 1 year ago. I left med-surg after 3 years and moved to the ED. I love it, but it was definitely an adjustment. My hospital had a 12 week fellowship program that included class time as well as orientation to the floor. We learned about things we never encountered on the floor such as drips and rhythm strips (my biggest fear). Make sure you get with an experienced preceptor who is willing to teach you. My best advice is when you start down there, keep your ears open. If I heard someone had a patient who was going to be paced, or get clot busting agents, etc., I tried to be in the room as an observer. Depending upon the area you're in, you may not get those too often, and at least you'll have some idea when you get that patient for the first time. Always ask for help when you're unsure of something. I still have things come up that I need help with, and most of my co-workers have been great. It's a great learning experience most days. Good Luck with your interview.

teeituptom, BSN, RN · Sep 2, 2005

good luck

shasta1 · Sep 20, 2005

thank you for the advice, i am kind of new to the site so i just realized now (almost 3 weeks later) that you replied to my thread, sorry. my interview went well, i got the job!! I am really excited and really nervous, but really happy to be starting something totally new. I start orientation on 9/26 then i get a few weeks of classroom and then i am out in the department. I have some days that i say i know i can do it, i know the stuff that i know well and i am a fast, eager learner. but then i have days where i think of all the stuff i dont know (like you said, the drips ekg rhythms). Alot of thoughts considering i havent even started yet!! in the end i know this is the right thing for me. i am glad to hear you have been there a year and are feeling confident. i am really looking forward to my new adventure. Just a quick question, Did you use any books or drug manuals or anything when you first started???

SWFlorida · Sep 21, 2005

There are quite a few small books on ER nursing. These are very helpful to have. There are little pocket manuels which have the IV drips listed, how to calculate meds etc. Very helpful.

I was in your exact spot 16 years ago, best move I ever made. Just remind yourself to learn one new thing a day, don't fret the small stuff and gain a thick skin. Don't lose your humanity and keep a sense of humor.