Float pool in the ICU- Help

[DaisyGrlRN]

I work in my hospital float pool and have recently finished my orientation to the units. I have been told that I won't have to take an admission or take the 1:1 cases. We listen to report then decide who gets which patients. They look to me to decide who I want to take first. The expectations are that I will take one stable vent and anther patient. Do you have any advice for me on deciding which patients to take?

In the past I have asked for the floor staff's input but they have turned it back to me. I don't feel I have enough experience to make that decision.

Do you have any advice on floating to the units?

[perkizme]

I'm not exactly sure what you're asking but I guess while starting out (or until you feel more comfortable) take the stable vent and maybe any patients that are on their way out of the ICU (stepdown or floor 'boarders'). They should be a little easier along with the stable vented patient. Dont you have a charge RN that makes assignments? These are the types of pts we generally give to our float pool staff~

[DaisyGrlRN]

That is the kind of patient that I am supposed to take. The CRN is in charge of 3 units so she isn't always available to make the assignments.

I know enough to know I don't know enough about Critical Care.

I'm scared I will miss something on one of my patients. Everyday there feels like I am starting over, because the staff is different or I haven't been assigned there for awhile. They don't know me, I don't know them. I'm not sure who the good resource people are. I guess the best thing for me to do is stay positive, continue to study, and ask questions.

Thanks for your info.

[newohiorn, BSN, RN, EMT-P]

ginnyb1,

I just started in the float pool at my hospital. I'm expected to float to all critical care units (regular ICU, cardiac and neuro ICU) and the floor. Our ICU also chooses patients the way you described. So far when I have gone to the unit they have just told me which 2 patients I have--I often get there late because I was floated somewhere else for the first 4 hours. I'm not looking forward to the day that I have to choose my own assignment--I don't want to be a slacker but I also don't want to bury myself and get my butt kicked.

I know what you mean about every day feeling like starting a new job. I'll be happy to commiserate with you about this float pool experience--I'm finding it pretty stressful so far but I'm optimistic that it's the right choice for me--just gotta get used to it I suppose.