Nervous

[bamagt]

Alright everyone, I found out where I'm doing my preceptorship today and I am nervous.

I'm doing it in the ER at a level 1 trauma center. Now I've worked in a level 3 ER as a tech for 3 years so I know how to manage my time and what not but I am so nervous that I won't be able to make it here.

I know the first day or so I'll basically be watching if we have any traumas but after that I'll probably be a little bit more hands on.

Any tips on what to look over before I go? If any of you guys have ever worked in a level 1 ER what should I expect during the trauma's?

Any help or words of advice are greatly appreciated.

[Kylea]

I don't have any particular advice other than get in there and get your hands dirty! :) Sounds like an awesome experience. Your preceptor will be well aware of what you know how to do, and if he/she doesn't, there is nothing wrong with you saying you have never done x,y, or z before, as long as you are willing to try it now. They will be with you at all times, especially in the beginning. Have fun with it!

I worked on a med/surg floor of a lvl 1 trauma center. When I was on nights, if I wasn't busy when a code was called, we were allowed to go down and watch the trauma room. It was awesome to see! There are so many people there, milling about so to speak, with everyone doing a very specific job. X-rays, cathertizations, getting lines in, the occasional intubation....very rapid assessments. It's a great place to sharpen your skills. Biggest thing to study up on are your CPR skills. Other than that, it depends on the type of truama. Having not actually worked the unit, I can't get anymore specific than that. Good luck!

[pinkdakota8]

:) our hospital is a level one trauma center .... I think you will be fine. My guess is that there will be a lot of guidance for you. The training in our hospital for a trauma nurse is 6 months before being left alone.

[BelleKat, BSN, RN]

What an awesome opportunity!!