New Grad going to ER..tips?

[buckles1416]

Hey, I will be starting as a fresh baby nursing grad in the ER in August.

I was confident enough in myself to get the job, but now I am a little terrified that I won't know enough and my preceptor will think I am stupid.

I don't remember every single medication and medical diagnosis..is that something that just comes with time or am I expected to know this as soon as I start?

What are some tips on what I can do to prepare myself before I go back to work?

Also, should I invest in a super nice stethoscope..or would just a MDF classic be good enough?

Thank you!

[BirkieGirl]

I took that same route 21 years ago when I was fresh out of school. I went to a large level 1 trauma center and found out after about 2 weeks that it wasn't for me, I just didn't have enough baseline experience to function in an ER. I work in a much smaller hospital now and I think that our ER is great for new grads. Maybe it's maturity and perception...as a nurse, it won't be your job to remember every diagnosis or medication, that's why there are docs and providers. They will give orders, and your job will be to carry them out. yes you need to know a good amount of meds/diagnoses, but everyone there will expect that you are new and need time to grow. As a new nurse you will be given a LOT of orientation, take advantage of every single minute that they will give you. Ask TONS of questions and take lots of notes. your regular scope will be just fine. you'll do great, just get good shoes and a notebook that fits in your scrubs. good luck

[cleback]

What the PP said.... I'd also like to add that the range of medication you'll be giving in the er is different... you'll be giving meds to treat/stabilize a acute condition, so you likely won't be giving many home meds. That will narrow your focus a bit. If you want to brush up, probably the most important meds are the ones in ACLS, bp meds, sedation, pain meds, antibiotics. I don't work in er very often but those are the most critical and most frequent meds I see in the er. Good luck--such an exciting time!