How to be a good tech in the STICU/NSICU?

[Carb0n]

Hello all -- I recently completed my second semester of a BSN program and was hired into a Surgical/Trauma/Neurosurgical ICU unit as a tech. My first day of orientation is Wednesday and I was wondering if any of the nurses/techs on here had some advice for:

a) What things I can do to be a great tech on the floor and build rapport with the staff

b) What sorts of things I'd want to avoid doing as a tech on a floor like this

c) And lastly, anything I can read up on to prepare for this job

Any tips or help would be appreciated. I am trying to be as prepared as possible. Thanks in advance!

[hofamb]

I am a tech in a large surgical icu and recently graduated. I can tell you that the biggest thing that I did to be a great tech is to be available and show that I want to learn everything possible. Rather than spending any free time chatting with other techs, I tried to see/do as much as possible. It allowed me to learn more than I ever thought possible. Good luck! It's an amazing opportunity.

[jennycRN]

I agree that being available and showing an interest is the best way to establish rapport and trust with the staff. Sometimes it takes a little time (whether you are a nurse or tech) so be patient. You'll get a sense of which nurses are receptive to teaching and questions and when are good moments to ask for more information.

If you have a smartphone, I would avoid bringing it onto the unit no matter what you see other people doing. And don't bring textbooks on off shifts to try to study during downtime.

Best of luck to you. Being a nursing student is great preparation for being a tech so just be ready to study any policies or skills that your facility directs you to perform (it varies a lot between hospitals). Sounds like you are really excited and I hope this is a great experience for you.

[Mimi90RN]

I am currently a tech in a trauma ICU and even did my externship in the same unit. I go to work everyday and treat it like a clinical experience, meaning showing up on time, looking professional, going above and beyond for the nurses, etc. Every nurse has their own way so it definitely took some time to know each nurse's way so you will learn that as you go along. If you feel there is nothing to do, find something to do like stocking the rooms or fixing up the nursing unit. Do not be idle. These nurses talk among each other and things might go back to the manager. This can be your job interview, you never know. I got the externship on my unit because the nurses told me they liked me and rallied for me. The nurses can make or break this opportunity for you. Also, it is a great learning experience. Ask questions, seem interested in what they are doing, be open and willing to learn anything. If the nurses see that, they will take you under your wing and mentor you. The nurses I work with have definitely had a great impact in my nursing career. I learned more as a tech and an extern than I ever did my four years of nursing school