My first code observation

I started in the ER as a new grad. Very steep learning curve! I was repeatedly told it would take me a year to feel somewhat comfortable and 2-3 to hit my stride ... very true.

Best of luck to you - hang on for the ride. :)

:grpwlcm:

It does take a while, but even if you just do chest compressions, which is all I did on my first code, or hand over IV fluids or whatever else is needed, you will learn. It is a constant learning process, and every code I'm involved in, especially with different docs and nurses, I either learn something new that's good or not-so-good, but always take a moment after to reflect on it. Maybe write some notes, or if you can, ask the doc why he/she did what they did for the pt. It all starts to 'click' after a while!

don't forget that your employer may have an employee assistance program if you need to vent to someone. Good luck in your career!

:stone What have I done?

You see, I am a new nurse in the emergency department . Remember me? Green as green can be? Ya, that's me. Just graduated...hired fresh into the E.D. So today, I just observed my first code in the E.D. Patient probably won't make it. I just observed and it's scary all the things I need to know and do and it has to be right away. WOW! Well, it's not as bad as "What have I done?" but it's quite interesting to see how it all works and what level of nurse I will be over time. All the fear aside, I am so looking forward to working and thinking like these nurses. While I am quite aware of my inadequacies as a nurse, I am also in awe of these others - these mentors and examplars...and what I can learn from them and how I can ultimately help the patient. Well done, E.D. team.

Are you an emergency nurse? Did you get hired right out of school into the specialty? If yes, what did you make of observing your first code?

You pointed out something that really is a testament to your character: you are aware of your inadequacies and know what you need to learn. Keep that up, that's a perfect outlook - that way you'll always be up for new opportunities and you will learn and grow with each experience. There are many out there who are not in fear because, quite frankly, they think they know it all. I believe one who has fear works that much harder to be the best they can be to learn and make themselves a better nurse.