new ER nurse, meds and will I ever feel somewhat comfortable?

[littlemissfit]

Newer nurse in trauma level 3 ER, I'm having trouble trying to remember the copious amounts of IVP meds that are new to me. I always read on here you should know everything about a med before giving it, but sometimes I feel it's impossible to remember it all.

We only have 3 computers so it's difficult to have the chance to get on the computer to look up policies. Anyways I'm trying my best to look every med up before giving it through our policies versus a drug book but I just feel like there's so many meds, side effects, and contraindications, etc., it's overwhelming. How long did it take other ED nurses to feel comfortable with the copious amounts of meds? Esp potent meds. And how long did it take you to feel like you belong in the ED? I feel dumb pretty much everyday, but my preceptor says I'm doing good. I'm still fearful of how easy it is to make a mistake but I remain calm in emergencies. I feel ill do good eventually, but I'm wondering how long I should give eventually to come. Any thoughts?

[AZQuik]

Have you tried a phone app like micromedex?

BSN GCU 2014.

Sent from my iPhone using allnurses

[thenightnurse456]

You'll feel more confident with your medication knowledge as time goes on and you gain more experience.

Even senior nurses still look up medication information from time to time. It's about patient safety as well as protecting your license.

Don't give a med unless you know what it is, does etc.

[RN_EMT]

There is a bunch of apps that help, but if your lacking time, a quick reference to a seasoned nurse will do. Eventually they become repetitious and you will feel more comfortable.=)