Rene24

I took a job on a cardiac surgical intermediate floor right out of nursing school and totally had that same sick feeling on the way to work. I would literally throw up on my way to work this went on for several months (but only when i worked day shifts and not nights). I got comfortable after the first few months - I think part of the problem was the person I oriented with. I've been there now for two years and have two weeks left before I start in CCU. I think you can defintely do it - it might be better to start out on an intermediate floor if you have no tele or rhythm experience.

Thank you so much!! That was really helpful, and if anyone else is interested I found a hospital protocol for hypothermia http://www.med.upenn.edu/resuscitation/hypothermia/documents/Penn_Post-CardiacArrestCareHypothermiaOrderSet011309v2.pdf, they are located in PA but it was very similar to what i've heard from others and gives you an idea of the drips and procedure.

I just accepted a position in CCU (a medical cardiac icu) and have been on cardiac surgical step down floor for the past two years. In our CCU we induce hypothermia for the post MI/Cardiac arrest patients who would benefit from it. I was wondering if anybody could explain what all is involved as far as nursing care, what the RN actually does, what scares you - what to watch out for. I know there are tons of drips and protocols and would love to have more info. Thanks!