New ED Nurse

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Hello everyone! I graduated from nursing school in June and began my job as an RN at the beginning of August on a medsurg floor. It hasn't been my cup of tea for a multitude of reasons, and I just accepted a new position at an outside hospital in their Emergency Department. This is a HUGE dream of mine and I am SO unbelievably excited. With that, I'm also extremely nervous because I'm still a relatively 'new' nurse. I completed my internship at school in an ER, but that's not enough experience. My new manager is AWESOME and sounds like he has faith in me, but still, I'm nervous about going somewhere new and intense.

I was just wondering if anyone had any tips for me prior to starting? :-) Thanks!

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I'm with you. I just graduated and will be starting in a large ER in two weeks. I was an ER tech for 3 years while I was in nursing school but I know this is a whole new cup of tea!

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I've been in those shoes. My best advise is to make yourself a "brain sheet" to help keep you organized throughout your shift, and keep a blank index card in your pocket. Jot down things you need to look up when you get home, or questions you might have for your preceptor or manager.

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Specializes in ED.

It'll take about 6 months to find your legs on average. You see so much you gotta focus on improving little by little. You won't get it all in a day. Show you are willing to learn, question everything you don't understand. ER docs are on hand alot compared to the floor so you have more time to ask WHY they are doing things (some will, some won't just depends). Jump in on any skill you can get your hands on, takes practice to get em right. Try and not pick up "bad" nursing habits. It happens alot in the ER. Take care of your emotions whatever way you need to, and don't bring your work home (other than studying that is!).

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Thanks everyone!!! I'm really nervous but excited ;)

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