MidnightSn1

I think it depends on what area you are working in. I work in STICU in a Level 2 trauma center, covering a 200 mile radius with 2 jet helicopters. What I always carry in my pockets: Scissors Lots of alcohol pads Yellow magic marker/red pen to highlight any abnormal findings on my exam/report sheet Safety pin for neuro exam Black ink pen for general notes (we do all charting on computer) Carpojet (? spelling) for use with MS type syringes Small, good, bright flashlight (reusable with batteries) Hemostat attached to hem of scrub top for those tight connections on IV's, etc. Direct phone line, laminated numbers to our Drs. (attached to my ID) Fine tip black marker for dating drsgs./tapes/new lines Hope this helps and good luck to you in your practice. MidnightSn1 :penguin:

I traveled with O'Grady-Peyton for a short time and really enjoyed it. They were very supportive through the whole process from start to finish. Most of my experience has been STICU and I traveled to a Level 1 trauma center for my first 2 assignments. I worked in the Neuroscience ICU, which I enjoyed. They expected alot of me right from the beginning because of my past experiences. I got 1 full 12 hr. shift and 6 hrs. of the next 12 hr. shift as orientation. The procedures were no different than I was use to; just getting oriented to the physical layout was the most difficult. Finding equipment, etc. My co-workers were amazing in how they helped. I found out alot of companies I interviewed with want you to have your CCRN. Fortunately I have had mine for many years. I am sure alot of these requirements would depend on the area you are applying to. Go for it. You will meet all kinds of neat people and see that there is more than 1 way to do things. Just be sure to stay in close contact with your company rep. They are a great help. MidnightSn1 :penguin:

I work in STICU. Our unit and MICU both have this. No trouble at all to work with. I love it. The Dr. can finally actually see who and what you are talking about. Everything is done by the nurse or Dr. working on the eICU robot. They unplug it by remote control and drive it to where they want to be. The only thing we need to do is to plug it back in after it has maneuvered itself back into it's bay. Our robot does not make regular rounds, but the MICU robot does. It looks into rooms to make sure HOB up properly, answers questions from Pt. and family. MidnightSn1 :penguin: P. S. I use the penguin character because that is how I feel I am running when I run marathons and half-marathons.

Our shifts are: 7p -7a 7a - 7p 3a - 3p 3p - 3a Also have a few nurses who still work just days or just nights. This is a trauma center in northern Indiana. Good luck. MidnightSn1 :penguin:

I find your comments that old nurses don't want to learn/do new things very offensive. I have been an RN since 1969. I have my ACLS, CCRN, TNCC, PALS, working on my CNRN & BSN. I am always excited and receptive to new ideas, equipment, and treatments as long as they are in the best interest of the Pt. population. MidnightSn1 :penguin:

We frequently use Propofol as a cont. drip on our vented Pts. Also occasionally use it at low dose if Pt. not vented. Drs. do IVP. We do frequently use IVP Versed and occasionally as cont. drip. Great to use on neuro Pts. since it is so short acting. We stop Propofol drip every 8 hrs. to judge Pt. neuro status. MidnightSn1 :penguin:

I personally find perfume offensive when I have to stand beside it during report. As a Pt. I also found it offensive. Anything heavily scented gives me migraines. We currently have no official policy about perfume. While on the subject of scents: The odor of cigarette smoke on my co-workers is very offensive also. I have had Pts. make comments to me about how they know that their nurse smokes. MidnightSn1 :penguin:

Love my 12 hr. shifts. Would never voluntarily go back to 8 hr. shifts. In our STICU 12 hrs. go by remarkably fast. Sure cuts down on driving to/from work so much. MidnightSn1 :penguin:

I work at a Level 2 Trauma Center in Surgical Trauma ICU in Indiana. We cover a 200 mile radius with our 2 jet helicopters. I work four 12 hour shifts per pay period (every 2 wks.). Everyone in our unit must take 12 hours of on call per month. We can do it in 4 hr., 8 hr., or the complete 12 hours at once. We alternate the sign up time at 6am one month and 6pm the next month. The nurses who are already on duty get first chance to sign up. If the on call time falls over a major holiday, then names are drawn for sign up sequence. We get paid time and half if called in. No one enjoys the on call requirement, but it is great back up for those of us working. MidnightSn1 :monkeydance: