New Grad - Just landed a rehab position - Any pointers?

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Hi guys, as the title states, this is my first job as an RN and I was in psych previous to this so let's just act like I know nothing, because thats what it feels like.

Are there any things I should know that are specific to rehab nursing?

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

I work at a rehab hospital. . .get really familiar with your pain meds. Norco (hydrocodone/acetaminophen) is the pain medication I administer most commonly. Other pain meds that I administer include tramadol (Ultram), hydromorphone (Dilaudid), Oxycodone IR (immediate release), Oxycodone SR (sustained release a.k.a. Oxycontin), Morphine, MS Contin (sustained release morphine), oxycodone/acetaminophen (Percocet), Demerol, and hydrocodone/ibuprofen (Vicoprofen).

Lots of anticoagulation protocols are in place due to the multitude of CVAs and s/p MIs. You'll be giving of Coumadin, Pradaxa, Lovenox, Heparin, Plavix, ASA, etc.

Brush up on the following diagnoses, surgeries and afflictions: CVA, MI, multiple sclerosis, quadriplegia, paraplegia, tramautic brain injury, anoxic brain injury, pneumonia, BKA (below the knee amputation), AKA (above the knee amputation), CA (cancer), autonomic dysreflexia, hypertension, CAD, PVD, CHF, diabetes type I and II, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, TKA (total knee arthroplasty), THA (total hip arthroplasty), ORIF, CABG, ostomy care, PEG tube care, etc.

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Thank for this! I am a psych nurse who may be transitioning to inpatient rehab (step down from acute) depending on how this interview goes tomorrow!

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Great advice! I'v been offered a job as a inpatient rehab nurse at a VA hospital and was not sure what to expect.

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