New Grad, Feeling Overwhelmed!

chicookie, BSN, RN · Mar 29, 2009

To me what has helped is really setting a time frame. Like by 10am med passes and assessment charting and a pie note must be completed for all patients. If not done already all dressing changes have to be done before I pass my 12 meds. Right after I pass my meds I chart again. Lunch. I try every time I pass meds I chart. Usually I am caught up & done with everything at 3 unless a discharge or admit is thrown into the mix. Plus I try to group everything as much as I can. For instance if I am behind, I pass med and do a dressing change while teaching the client. Also I do things on my way, for example if I run past room 3 while getting something for room 5, I stick my head in and ask if they need something that way while I am getting the stuff for room 3, I get the stuff for room 5. Plus it keeps them off the call bell.

That is what is working for me so far.

truern · Mar 29, 2009

I agree with chicookie...get a routine, try to stick with it, but make allowances for life's little surprises.

First thing after report, I like to take a look at labs and check what meds are due and when. Then I check any BGs to see if insulin is required. Next I go assess each patient and while I'm in the room I look to see what IVFs are hanging and how much is left, if they're on O2, special equipment, etc. Then I give meds and chart. By 10:30 I'm finished with assessments, meds, charting, etc and it's time to see if there are any new orders. If nothing requires my attention right then, I go take a break because before long it's time for ac BGs and noon meds. Also, I keep notes of most everything. Tests results, procedures, labs, VS, pain meds administered, etc...that way when I give report I have all that information readily available.

I remember feeling much like you do when I was a new grad...thinking I'd never get the hang of it and I was in over my head. I swear to you it wasn't a month later that I was on top of things and functioning like a champ!! You will get there...I promise! :)

SummerGarden, BSN, MSN, RN · Mar 30, 2009

i asked experienced nurses for their sheets! you know, the piece of paper they carry to stay organized? i found a few that benefit me and have modified them according to how i like to see my day. btw, i do dressing changes after 12 pm... i do not have as many meds or docs or labs or procedures to deal with after that point. i also do not take lunch at 12 unless it is a weird day... i take my lunch around 1-3... yep, i too am still working on my time management! however, i am getting better.... gl! :up:

-new grad rn

vashtee, RN · Mar 30, 2009

I made up an hourly schedule for my daily tasks to remind me of what needs to be done at what time, and I follow it throughout the day. It really helps to keep me from forgetting anything. You need 5-10 minutes in the AM before seeing your patients to go through the bedside charts and plan your day.

Also, I am using a tool belt/fanny pack thingy to carry common supplies around with me so I don't have to waste my time running back and forth for frequently-used supplies like flushes, alcohol wipes, bandaids, and sterile caps for the tubing.

I asked my preceptor where she thought my primary weaknesses were with regards to time management, (I was wondering if I was charting too much), and she said it is really just a matter of becoming faster with assessments, which only comes with experience. This may be the case for you, too.