ED interview advice

[silkysteph]

I just got an invitation to interview at ZSFGH, Level 1 Trauma Center. The interview includes case scenarios. What's your advice for me? How should I study and what should I study?

Thanks

[nursemaryzzel]

Best advice--go by the book for case scenarios. I once had a proffessor tell me, "when you hear hooves clapping, think horses not zebras." Just because the pt came in complaining of headaches does not mean he has meningitis. Think logically and whatever you do, DO NOT RUSH!

On that same note, make certain that the interviewer sees you are an efficient thinker. ER is all about thinking on your feet and making tough calls in the spur of the moment. Be sure to highlight that you work effectively in fast paced environments and that you are a sharp thinker.

Best of luck. ER is not for the weak at heart.

[silkysteph]

thank you so much. do you have a recommendation for a good website or book?

[nursemaryzzel]

thank you so much. do you have a recommendation for a good website or book?

I mainly used "Emergency Nursing Made Incredibly Easy!" by Lippincott, Williams, and Wilkins and "Fast Facts for the ER Nurse: Emergency Room Orientation in a Nutshell" by Jennifer Buettner. Those weren't terribly overwhelming and explained everything in simple terms. PM me and I'll send you the links. :)

[Armygirl7]

silkysteph,

Don't get to hung up on having all the exact "right answers." If you are a brand new ER nurse you're not expected to know how to be an ER nurse! But what managers and educators want to see is capacity for thinking on your feet, for prioritizing patient safety, and for understanding that you work and communicate with a team. I like to see new ER nurses who are thoughtful, activated (ready for action!), and open-minded.

I agree with nursemaryzzell - I love the Lipincott books - there's another one "ER Facts Incredibly Quick" that I liked. I read Sheehy's Emergency Nursing Principles and Practice, and Sheehy's Manual of Emergency Care after almost every shift when I first started (bazillion questions!) They were also the books I consulted most when studying for the CEN.

Good luck!

[silkysteph]

awesome, thanks for the great advice. buying those books right now:)

[DayDreamin ER CRNP]

Remember your ABCs. Address the patients that will need immediate attention first. They are going to be looking at how rattled you get when they start firing questions at you, too, so bear that in mind.

I also agree with @nursemaryzzel When you hear hooves, think horse, not zebra.

Don't fret too much. They realize you are a new grad and won't expect you to know TNCC backwards and forwards.