First time giving meds tomorrow

missy--kay · Mar 24, 2010

Exciting! My advise... check, check, check, check, check. Always check your 5 rights. It's easy to get "into the swing of things" and not always check your patient's band, but get into the habit early. Know the meds you are giving and what they do before you enter the room. There will always be the patient that says, "what's the green/pink/white... one for"? Take your time...

Oh, and have fun tomorrow! :)

squirt2008 · Mar 24, 2010

Wow, I am having flashbacks! I have been in the 'biz' for almost 20 years....still remember the 1st time I handed out meds.....I was sooo nervous too. But the best advice as previous poster said is to do all of your checks, take your time and ask questions if you are not sure. Cannot change the situation if you give wrong med to patient............your heart will sink to your shoes if that happens! Good luck!

tiffanyleigh0212 · Mar 24, 2010

Thanks so much you guys! I'll be sure and come back here tomorrow after clinicals to tell how it went.

That Guy, BSN, RN, EMT-B · Mar 24, 2010

Just breathe, relax and appear confident. After the first time its about a million times easier.

kennopey · Mar 24, 2010

I remember passing meds for the first time. It was just 6 months or so ago. It is normal to be nervous. Just as said above remember your right and look up the class, action, reason you pt and taking the medication, and side effects to monitor after medication is given and you will do great. First time is always the hardest but learn to make it fun.

Hazel11 · Mar 25, 2010

I just started passing meds two semesters ago. I usually keep my meds in the packages they come in, just in case the patient refuses or wants to know more info about the meds. (I don't want to mix up which color each drug is.) Always check the patient's name band, even if it is your only patient. Start learning good habits early! :)

9livesRN, BSN, RN · Mar 25, 2010

that brings so many memories... I got so nervous on my first time that I opened the pill pack upwards and sent the pill flying in the room!!! Thanks that the patient had quick reflexes and caught it in the air!!!

LesMonsterRN, ADN, RN · Mar 25, 2010

Be methodical, check your 5 rights, and take a deep breath. Remember, there's only 1 first time and once you've jumped that hurdle, you will be amazed at how much more confident you will feel. Truly a rite of passage! :) Good luck tomorrow! Be sure to update us on how it went, okay?

tiffanyleigh0212 · Mar 25, 2010

thanks for all the responses!! i know i'll do fine, just remember to breathe.... and check like crazy!! i feel better about it, i'll be back tomorrow afternoon to update on how it went!

zaydonima · Mar 25, 2010

Hey Tiffany,

You're not alone! I'll be giving meds for the first time with my instructor this Friday. If your teacher doesn't mind put some of those sticky tabs to mark the pages in the drug guide for yourself. I know its nerve-wracking, performance testing makes me really anxious. Hopefully you went to bed to get some rest. Be confident in yourself tomorrow. You can do it!!!! Like everyone said, remember the 6 Rights, aseptic technique, and all of that good stuff.

Good luck,

MDCupcake

beach_bride514 · Mar 25, 2010

i know it's late & you might not read this tonight, but i still wanted to say something!

you got this!! :)

just know the drugs you're giving (usually instructors will make you go over them with them before going in the pts room, also so you will be able to tell the pt/family what you are giving them) also make sure to remember to check all orders, arm bands, numbers, dosage. just relax, and you'll do great! it's the best feeling after it's over! let us know how it goes, good luck! :)