Okay now, why am I scared to death NOW

[peaceful2100]

I am a senior nursing student and why in the world am I all of the sudden so scared and fearful. We start clinicals in the ICU on Monday and I am VERY, VERY scared of that place. What if one of my patients code. I honestly do NOT know what to do if that happens. I am scared of freaking out. I am normally a calm person but I have this fear. Of Course I am not expecting or wishing that to happen but I am just scared about how will or what will I do. WE have not been told much about this sort of thing at school by any of the instructors I am very, very scared about my ICU rotation. It is four weeks long but I don't know what to expect or how I will do.

[RnRatchet]

You can always ask the nurse you are with for the day .. if you feel comfortable enough... if someone codes can I help with compressions? Doing compressions is a great way to help take some of the work off the RN's that need to be pushing meds, etc. Otherwise, sit back and watch.. you're a student and no one will think any less of you for observing.. that's what you're there for!

Good luck and enjoy!

[xxAmyxx]

During my rotation through ICU we did have our own patients. Ill never forget my patient turning his head back and forth until he finally disconnected the vent (just for a second). A voice in my head said "reconnect the tube idiot." and I did everything was fine.

Remember that ICU is well staffed and under no circumstance will you be left alone in a code. You have more of a chance of getting run over by the crowd that will be rushing in. Take a deep breath and enjoy your time there, it's a great learning experience! :)