RNpds

Hello everyone, I’m a brand new nurse fresh out of school and recently acquired an amazing opportunity with the cath lab and I am currently in orientation. I have dreamed of working here for years because it has always intrigued me and I have been a patient multiple times due to congenital issues so I really take it to heart (no pun intended). I have a few years of experience as a tech on a tele floor and I feel I am fairly proficient with ekg’s (probably doesn’t mean much right now because I’ve only seen the tip of the iceberg) and always did well during cardiac areas in class/clinical, as well as learning from the nurses on my old unit. Not trying to brag at all, I am simply trying to give a background on my experience as well as where I stand as a nurse at this moment. I know I still have much to learn. For you experienced cath lab nurses, what are some pointers you’d give to a newbie starting in this department, what are things you wish you would have known when you started? I want to be the best nurse I can be, and I am wondering how I can be ahead of the game and pull my weight. Also other miscellaneous questions such as, if I invested in my own lead, what is best for my own protection as well as less strain on my back? Certain shoes? Other personal equipment, exercises, etc? (Being a tech has done a number on my back already and I’m still fairly young, 24 year old dude lol). Any other tips? Thank you to everyone who stumbles upon this and leaves some wisdom for a hungry nurse! Im so proud to join the ranks!