help me not suck :)

Specialties PACU

Published

i am a second career nurse with just over 2 years med surg under my belt. while i don't have icu experience, i have cared for step down patients, and am aware of my own limitations enough to grab a second nurse when things "just don't look right".

i have been presented with the opportunity to train in the pacu, and am beyond thrilled. the thing is, i am also nervous. i really don't want to blow this. i would love some insight into working comfortably with the experienced and tight knit group i am about to join. i am looking to avoid some stupid newbie mistakes, and maybe gain some knowledge of things people are really going to wish i knew walking in the door.

i am reading the perianesthesia book, have taken acls, and signed up for pals. i am also reviewing drugs and airway management.

what else can i do?........should i know???

thanks in advance!!

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Truthfully - there is no magic answer to your question. You need experience. Only by recovering many patients will you develop the confidence not to "suck." Work as much as you can. Take advice from co-workers who are worth listening to (not the one with the loudest mouth). Listen to your inner voice when something does not feel right. Do not do anything you don't feel competent doing. The true challenge of PACU nursing is keeping on your toes - even when things seem so routine. I have had happy, seemingly "ok" patients stop breathing from a simple dose of IV analgesics. With experience, you will develop the right instincts...

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Specializes in picc certified.

Watch your pts even the wide awake ones like Stopnik said they'll quit breathing on you ,air goes in and out blood goes round and round and 02 is good welcome to PACU

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