GN in Level 1 Trauma

[LVAD RN]

Hello All!!

I start in May as a GN in the ED at a Level 1 trauma center & while I am excited, I am nervous but could not see myself working anywhere else. My orientation will be 1 year long so this is great. I have worked as a patient care technician & interned on Medsurg, OR & vascular floor before so those are not areas I am interested in.

1. What can I expect in the ED?

2.How can I prepare for my transition from patient care technician & nursing student to GN?

4.One of my classmate will also be working on the unit we are friendly enough where we go shopping together but how do I handle being friends but be professional at the same time. I know working with friends on the same unit can cause problems so how can I avoid that?

What other tips can you give me?

Thank you in advance.

[travelcrazyRN]

1. expect to use EVERY skill your learned in nursing school (from every unit and specialty), and from the experience of being a PCT. Don't expect to know and see it it all immediately (or even within the first year). Questions are good, and don't be afraid to ask them, as long as you have already critically thought about your question. You will learn quickly which seasoned nurse is best for answering questions. ER nurses tend to be vocal and opinionated...don't let the negative ones way you down. Always volunteer to watch/assist with a procedures, even if it isn't your patient. You never know when that same situation will be YOUR pt next. I have found it to be helpful to look things up on my own time that I may see or have already seen in the ED..everything from meds to procedures.

2. You will naturally revert back to a PCT role, but you have to remember you are the nurse now. There is nothing wrong with doing the things that can be delegated to a PCT, however you have to prioritize. If there are PCT available, and you have two patients that need your assistance....one needs pain meds, and the other needs to pee.....Delegate.....that is your responsibilty. This would be A LOT harder if you are working on a unit that you have previously worked. Most people find it hard to adapt to a co-worker changing rolls, PCT to nurse, or staff nurse to charge nurse.

3. This will not be any different from any other job you have had. Having friends at work makes the day better. You still have a job to do and so do they. It shouldn't interfere. If it does they were not a good friend to begin with. #1- KEEP THE DRAMA AWAY FROM WORK.