New job in Trauma ICU, in need of advice

[xjessx]

Hey Everyone,

I've been a reader of this site for about 4 years now and I've learned so much from all of you experienced nurses. I've been a Registered Nurse for a year and a half working on a Telemetry floor. My dream has always been to work in an ICU. I knew before I ever graduated that ICU was all I wanted and was so sad when I couldn't get in right out of school. Anyway, I took what I could get, worked hard, and I've now been offered a position in a Trauma ICU at a major hospital right next to my house! I couldn't be more excited. I also couldn't be more nervous! I want to succeed and be the best nurse I can which leads me to the reason for my post.

I was hoping you more experienced nurses could offer some advice, tips, tricks, and information on things I should read up on before starting. Meds, drips, assessment tips?

Thank you in advance :redbeathe

[Biffbradford]

I'm sure they will put you through some sort of critical care class during orientation. It might behoove you to go over EKGs, lung and heart sounds, review some xrays (chest, pelvis, head) just to get used to looking at them, and maybe go over some ventilator terms (title volume, PEEP, etc). I never worked trauma, but I think going over those basics would be a good start until they tell you what they want you to know. Our ICU had terrific on the job training, I swore I learned something new every day for the 12 years I was there.

[ckh23, BSN, RN]

I would also recommend studying up on neuro assessments other than your usual AAOx3. A lot of trauma's include some type of head injury. Like the previous poster said, you'll be going through orientation and some type of critical care class as well as a trauma class. If you have a good preceptor hopefully you'll be getting the sickest patients to take care of. Good luck and don't be afraid to ask questions.

[General E. Speaking, RN, RN]

The old standby icufaqs.org. Amazing reference.

[ICUPrincessNurse]

TNCC. Originally meant for ED nurses, but our entire ICU staff is required to have it and it is a GREAT tool for a full Trauma assessment. Most ED's only get through ABC on the trauma assessment before they roll them out to ICU or OR if they're that bad so ICU almost always finishes up the trauma assessment.