New Grad Going Into the ER

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Specializes in ER, MedSurg/Tele, ICU.

Hi Everyone,

I am a new grad (May 2011) and I was just offered an 8 month ER intern position with a 3 year contract. I AM SO EXCITED!! :w00t: I have been lurking in this area for some time now reading all of your stories and advice to other new ER nurses (both seasoned and new), as getting into the ER is my passion. My question is can anyone recommend a good ER/Trauma reference book that will fit in a scrub pocket? I saw a link in another post but apparently it was older/outdated and I received a 404 error code.

LC

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Look at "CheckMate" it comes in a pocket version, mine comes in an Iphone app. How verse are you in your Pharmacology? When I started in the ED, I anticipated what drugs I'm going to use in certain patient according to their presentation. i.e. EMS call with a pt coming in with SVT, what drugs would the ER MD will use..Or if it's an arrest... Amiodorone? Vasoactive drugs like dopamine or levophed, do I know the standard dose, how much is the initial dose, maintenance dose.

I made sure that I can visualized myself performing each step of the ACLS, I reviewed one particular common emergency drugs for 2 weeks everyday until I can tell you it's half life, it's expected side effect etc... Of course you will not want to limit yourself on these stuff. ER is also now being used as urgent care by people.

This simple steps will help achieve a certain comfort level working in an ED.

Good Luck

Gene

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Specializes in ER, MedSurg/Tele, ICU.

Thanks Gene! I got the app for my iPhone. Can you recommend any other apps that might be useful as well? :) I am going over my ACLS and PALS information to refresh and my notes from pharm class as well. My first month is all didactic so I should be able to review more.

Thanks,

LC

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I recommend porter's pocket guide for ER and also when you take ACLS for the first time, the book will include pocket guides. But your best guides will be your coworkers. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Even question the doctors! it is much easier to turn to the next person and ask for help then to go flippin' through a book or through your phone. Especially in an emergent situation! Good Luck! You'll love ER!

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Honestly, I can't give the Medscape app on iPhone enough praise. If you've got an iPhone, get this now. It is extremely useful for any nurse, not just ER nurses. It's got everything you could think of... drugs, procedures, protocols, etc.

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Specializes in ER, ICU.

I use Ecocrates (awesome!) drug reference on my iPod as well ad the EMS Field Guide and Critical Care ACLS Guide (all are aps).

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while the handbookof emergency cardiovascular care for healthcare providers is not availablein electronic version, it will fit in a scrub pocket. this is an excellent reference for all thingsacls, bls, nrp, or pals, and is available from the following sources: channingbete, laerdal, worldpointfor $25.00.

i am unfamiliar with porter's,however agree with the other options listed above: check-mate, medscape, and epoctrates. i have used these three in the past, and highlyrecommend any or all.

good luck in your new position!

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