Published
A mix of topics that comprises of things that you do all the time but could use more detail, and things you see and do rarely.
1. Sepsis componants. Short presentations on Lacatate, procalcitonin
2. complex 18 Lead EKG
3. Compartment syndrome
4. Correct order for blood draws and ways to limit hemolysis
5. Proper use of BVM
The list could be endless.
I was going to suggest transcutaneous pacing/internal pacing, but someone beat me to it.
Capnography if it is not commonly used in your facility (We were just starting to use it more when I left the ER 3 years ago).
Chest tubes is always a good topic, too (as previously mentioned).
Rapid infuser (used infrequently in our small community ER).
I would go for those low volume/high risk things, sounds similar to what I am seeing here. Initial plans I have are to go over massive transfusions, rapid infuser set-up/use (we have a Level 1, I miss my Belmont!), and chest tube drainage systems. If you're holding a lot of critical care patients, you could offer education on things like vents, art lines, etc.
I like the above suggestions about the how, but when I was a new nurse I so much appreciated the WHY... What the heck is a lactate, why is it important to check... Why do I have to go to blood so fast, why can't I give 8 liters of LR??? The task at hand is important, but understanding the rationale behind it can save a life!
Here's a good one: THE ESSENTIALS OF DOCUMENTATION. For example, if your patient has a change in condition/mental status/signs of life, it must be reflected in the charting — what was observed, and what was done in response. A chart shouldn't go from "pt AOx3, ambulatory" directly to "pt intubated" with nothing in the middle. Documentation must paint a picture of the patient's visit. This is a big, big challenge in the busy ED setting.
jgriffRN
3 Posts
Hey everyone, I am searching for educational topics to teach to ED nurses and techs at my facility. I have asked several of my co-workers where they feel that education is lacking but many of them give me minimal to no response.
Any suggestions on topics would be greatly appreciated.