Help

I'm only on my fourth week of work, but I have a report tip. I take the notes I made in report in the AM and highlight things that change over the course of the day (fluids, procedures, meds, orders). I write the changes to these in a different color on the paper so I don't forget them. I also take about five minutes before leaving the floor to skim each report note, making sure it's complete (even if this means a "potty break"). You'd be amazed how much you can accomplish in five minutes!

It's working really well for me. I trained myself to do this during my preceptorship in my last semester of nursing school and just picked it up again when I started working.

I'm still working on time management, but my preceptor says she can see improvements every day. I don't know what I'm consciously doing different; part of it, I think, is just learning the routine of the unit and remembering what gets done and when.

You'll get there - look at all the ones who have already done it before you.

Thank you so much for your advice. I will definately put it to use next week when I go back to work. I'm hoping every day gets a little better. Have a great weekend...

I am in my 4th week on the job too. I am in the ED and I too feel very overwhelmed. There is still tons to learn. I have improved in some areas, but I still need lots more practice in others. We will do it.