rn5350

Please, I urge you not to forget the resources that you do have at hand. You can always implement the safe harbor if you feel you are placed in an unsafe situation. If you quit and go across the street and it comes to it, do safe harbor there. The point is, once every one starts to voice these concerns they have to act. It is not ok to just turn a blind eye. You are obligated by law to report unsafe practice and many of us don't understand that if we know of something and don't report it, then WE are breaking the law. In numbers we can accomplish more. Don't be afraid to speak up for yourself or your patients, you are the #1 advocate!

Hi guys, I was wondering where you all KEEP you crash carts? My Boss had un lock it in a closet under lock and metal key we have to get from a nurses station to open the door and get the crash cart out. Is this kosher or not? Is this ok or is it breaking some kind of regulation?? When I came in and found that, I pulled it out back into the hall way in front of my nurses station. Suggestions??

i must say that i had initially wanted to do just that- er or icu right out. instead, i did medsurg/neuro for about 1 1/2 yrs...then i branched out. i think that gives you a nice broad base, everything you learn in school comes together, you build up confidence in your skills- and that really shows! then .....i joined float pool...through that i got to go to er many many times, picu, and every other floor besides icu. you get to test drive the different units before you commit to one. i finally decided i was ready and have now been in icu for 11 months. i love it! i have met nurses here that have only done icu...no floor experience...and it shows. big time. they personally don't have all the insight you get from roughing it on the med surg units for a while...you do pick up a lot of inside tips and hand me downs for other nurses! i think that a good nurse is someone that is compassionate and understanding, yet firm and strong when they need to be. please never forget that you are there for that patient. not to study them like a new mystery case to see if you can diagnose them, but to provide support and be and advocate to them. i think that if you keep that in mind, no matter where you start you will be all right. i treat them as i would a family member of mine and my patients always ask for me! just remember, as long as you get a good starting base you will grow with limitless possibilities in nursing! :redbeathe

Usually, the unit you are floated to is soo happy to have you that they wont mind to show you where everything you need will be. I know it gets hectic, but I have never been oriented prior to a float, so if i can do it, I am pretty sure you will be just fine. Most days I float I find its an even nicer day there than on my regular unit. Just remember you are there for the patient and try not to get caught up in the drama. Don't worry...your shift will be over soon!