Good orientation for a floor nurse new in PACU?

Specialties PACU

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Specializes in Med-surg Tele, PACU.

I'm very excited to transfer from floor to PACU. I was wondering what kind of orientation is going to help me best?

Any advices for getting a good start in PACU?

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I would def recommend some type of critical care classes. Working on the floor has probably given you excellent time managment skills. In the PACU, you will most likely ever have 2 pt's max- so that will be easier, but on the other hand- they require more intense care. Phase 1 PACU is considered critical care, so those classes would def help! Good luck and congratulations!

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Specializes in Med-surg Tele, PACU.

Thanks! I expect it to be challenging.

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How is your PACU job going? I am starting my Pacu job tomorrow, I've been a med-surge nurse for 4 years. I am excited but frightened. Give me some tips, please

Thanks

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Specializes in GI/GU surg,Pacu, ct surg, home care, NH.

Your PACU orientation should include a critical care course as well as a course in the care of mechanically ventilated patients. Other courses would include anesthetics difference bt general vs local vs conscious sedation. It should be atleast 10 weeks of hands on orientation. Please do not allow them to end your orientation until you feel ready. The main focus in the PACU is critical care situations such as respiratory depression, hemodynamic instabilty such as hypotension, bradycardia. Other things you would know already.

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Specializes in ICU, MedSurg, Medical Telemetry.

I've been working on a med tele nurse (pt load 6 patients) since graduation in May and have an interview in a PACU closer to home on Tuesday. I'm a little nervous (okay a lot nervous) and am kind of wondering what to expect.

what sort of adjustment would I expect if I were to get offered and take the job?

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