danyd
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I had 2-3 weeks of orientation when I started. That consisted of shadowing our other nurses and I thought it really helped. I was offered more time if I needed it, but I felt confident after the time I had. Much of it is learning as you go as nursing in general goes anyway. As far as skills go, I haven't run into to many yet. Peg tube care, dressing changes and that type of thing are all I have done so far. We do have people with cath's and that need blood drawn but none of them are my pt's. There is so much info on the internet that shows how to do certain skills that you may need to brush up on that I wouldn't worry to much about it. I think the other nurses in your facility would also be a great resource for you.
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I am having trouble with a few of my Alzheimer's pt's at IDG meetings where it is my job "to paint a picture" of the pt and why they qualify for hospice. I know these pt's qualify, I am just having trouble coming up with something new every other week to say. I am consistently saying pt. pale, poor turgor, temportal wasting, max assist with ADL's, stares blankly, verbal but confused--talks non-sensically much of the time etc. This particular pt. is non ambulatory, she eats well, no skin breakdown. Are there any other phrases I could use? I feel like I am saying the same thing over and over. Thanks
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Thank you all so much for all your help so far. I just accepted an offer to be a hospice nurse for a for profit agency. I have no hospice experience, but have worked in skilled nursing and TCU's where people have died. Some of those patients were on hospice and I noticed a huge difference in the experience for both the family and patient. I really admired the work of the hospice nurses and thought I would give it a shot. I have not had clinical experience for 5 years. My last nursing job was in a cardiology clinic. I have armed myself with some of the recommended reading on here and also will be watching 2 weeks later today. What nursing skills do I need to brush up on? Foley's, I.V.'s....what else. Thanks for your help!