New to NYC nursing originally from CA

[CA_2_NYC_RN]

Hello,

I have been reading different posts for awhile, but thought it was finally time that I added to the mix...I am an ER nurse living and recently started working in NYC, originally from California. I am not a new ER nurse, but new to the City.

I am amazed by the differences especially with nurse to patient work loads, (spoiled with CA ratio laws). I was wondering if anyone had any advice to handling large number of patients (10+) at a time in a busy ER?

Thanks, any input would be greatly appreciated...

CA 2 NYC RN

[herowneulogy, BSN, RN]

That's something I'd like to know, too, since I was recently hired into a Level 1 Trauma ED.....

Do you have 10 the whole day, or....? I know that the ER experiences an influx of patients a certain times during the day which is why you would get swamped (that and, you can't turn patients away).

[CA_2_NYC_RN]

Thanks for responding, I don't have 10 the whole shift, sometimes less at times more. It's just been a little challenging dealing with the larger loads (especially if I have a sick patient that requires more face time). Have you started working at your new hospital yet?

[herowneulogy, BSN, RN]

I start orientation next week. I was told my patient load is 8-12 (which I expected), but that it can go up to 15! But I won;t be allowed to touch anyone until after 6 months

[CA_2_NYC_RN]

Are you a new grad? What do you mean you won't be able to touch anyone until 6 months?

[herowneulogy, BSN, RN]

Yes, i'm a new grad. My orientation is for 6 months, and I won't truly be on my own until then. I guess my saying "i won't be able to touch anyone" was wrong wording on my part.

[MollyG]

no advice, but I relate...came from MN where on the floors the union had effectively negotiated a 4:1 ratio....HEAVEN!