I was assigned to cardiac stepdown!

[RNmom08]

Hi there! Just wanted to tell someone who may be able to give me a few words of wisdom.... I'm in Nursing IV, passed my nursing final last Tuesday - WooHOOO!!!! and now have been assigned to a nurse on cardiac stepdown for my preceptor. I'm excited yet scared with it being cardiac and all. I don't want to make a mistake and look like a fool or worse yet - comprimise patient safety. I have always been very careful with my caring for patients. I'm trying to be knowledgable and I have even reviewed cardiac content from past semesters. Is there any words of wisdom you can give me?

I start tonight from 7p-7a. I'm EXCITED!!!!! I've been told that I'm with a REALLY REALLY good nurse. In fact the 2 people I've talked to have stated that this particular nurse should have been a doctor and that she's so smart! They reassured me that I will learn so much from her.

Also, I will work 9 shifts with her and according to the schedule I should be done before December. Can you help me with gift ideas for her? I don't even know how much I'm supposed to spend on her. I really don't care about the money as long as I get something nice for her - ya know?? I'll find a way to pay for it, i'm just so grateful to have nurses who are willing to be preceptors for student nurses...

[SarasotaRN2b]

Well, why don't you wait until you know her longer...since at this point you are only meeting her for the first time. As you work with her, you may come up with an idea or so.

Kris

[RN1989]

Any massage therapy schools in your area? Massages by students are usually pretty cheap. Sounds like a nice way to relax after a stressful day at work.