New Grad- Bone Marrow Transplant Unit

[sunnydaydream]

Hey everyone! I will be graduating in 5 days (but who's counting!) and have gotten a job in the bone marrow transplant unit that starts in January.

I am very very very excited, but also scared about entering the real world. I want to learn as much as possible and want to read as much as possible... so does anyone have any reading material or even advice they would like to share that would help me with my transition into the bone marrow transplant world?

[Diary/Dairy, RN]

Be flexible, Be open to learning (there's still a lot to learn), make sure you have good support in your life........ Congrats!

[BearWayne]

Hi Sunnydaydream! Congratulations on graduation and on your new position! I too am a new grad (graduated on 12/12) and I too have accepted a position in a bone marrow transplant unit. I think it's a phenomenal opportunity and there will be SO much to learn! I can't start until after I've passed the boards.

Good luck! Let's keep in touch if you like!

[oncnursemsn]

What a great question- I teach nursing students and work part time on a BMT unit in Boston. Starting off in BMT you will have a lot to learn. Be patient and know that it will take a good year before you really begin to feel comfortable. This is a highly specialized area, with side effects that you won't see anywhere else. Your orientation should include hands on learning as well as classes. Know how long you'll be precepted. Where I work, new grads don't even take the chemotherapy class until they have worked on the floor a minimum of 6 months. The chemo course is 2 full days. I agree with previous posts, this can be very stressful and has a high mortality rate. Make sure you take care of yourself and have emotional "steam vents." Good luck- this can be so rewarding!

[Elona]

Hi sunnydaydream

I too just graduated (3.9.07) and starting next week in Bone Marrow Transplant Unit. I'm too very excited about the new job.

I wish you good luck :balloons: