New Telemetry Nurse TIPS

Ruby Vee, BSN · Oct 2, 2016

A small notepad is a great idea, if you can't carry your phone or if you'd rather not use the notes function on your phone. Put in frequently used phone numbers, locations of supplies you use frequently but can never seem to go right to, drugs and medical terminology to look up, the name of the unit secretary and the housekeeper if you're one of those people who is bad with names, etc. And carry your own pens -- some people are really picky about pens and you don't want to touch theirs. And in some places there are never any lying around, so you have to bring your own.

Bring your stethoscope, your own pens and something to write questions, etc. on. And then from there, see what your co-workers bring and carry. In the ICU, that was all I needed. But not every unit has supplies immediately accessible in every room. It shouldn't take long at all to figure out what to put in your pocket as you go from room to room.

Ask questions, but write down the answers so you're not asking them over and over. On my last job, I had notes on my phone with frequently used phone numbers, drip concentrations, lab norms, etc. A notepad works for that, too.

A brain sheet that works for you is going to be important. Your preceptor or new colleagues will have their own preferred method for keeping track of things -- see if any of their works for you. In a few weeks, you'll know what works for you and what doesn't, so you can adapt it for your use.

Take your lunch breaks. Go to the bathroom when you need to. Keep a water bottle around so you can drink when you want to.

Be open and friendly, introducing yourself to everyone you meet. The introverts among your new colleagues will really appreciate this, the extroverts will expect it. Keep introducing yourself as many times as it takes for someone to be able to greet you by name without prompting. (That may require years for some folks.).

Good luck in your new position.

barcode120x, RN, NP · Oct 4, 2016

I always have my "brain" (patient report/SBAR sheet) on me at all times with a pen. I always have extra flushes and alcohol swabs on me too. Ruby Vee up above pretty much hit everything else you need to know as a new tele nurse!

HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD · Oct 10, 2016

Since you're on a tele unit, I urge you to to get your hands on one of those handy-dandy little 6-inch EKG ruler thingies... with a quickie rate analysis/measurement scale, ectopic reminders, etc. They're usually freely distributed by drug manufacturers, but if all else fails, you can purchase one. HERE's an example. Eventually, you may also want to get your own EKG calipers.

Best wishes on your new job. Be patient with yourself. You're going to be fine.

Ruby Vee, BSN · Oct 10, 2016

Since you're on a tele unit, I urge you to to get your hands on one of those handy-dandy little 6-inch EKG ruler thingies... with a quickie rate analysis/measurement scale, ectopic reminders, etc. They're usually freely distributed by drug manufacturers, but if all else fails, you can purchase one. HERE's an example. Eventually, you may also want to get your own EKG calipers.
Best wishes on your new job. Be patient with yourself. You're going to be fine.

I would recommend getting the calipers first and learning to assess rhythms the correct way before learning the shortcuts.

gizahon · Oct 10, 2016

I agree with the above posts, stay confident, positive.

smile and be nice to everyone. Good luck and congrats. May God bless us all nurses!!!!!!