NICUnrs07

We also float to peds/picu in low census. We only care for under 2 years. We have a resource and we always refuse unsafe assignments, we don't do admissions there either. It is difficult to step onto another unit with different routines and practices but like others noted, you have to think about what a prudent nurse would do. As for infection control, we have peds/ picu floats often and we haven't had any issues but several of us have got upper respiratory issues after floating there. On a side note, we were floating to med surg and Ed as "helpers" where we could only assist nurses and techs, run to pharmacy and lab, take vitals (then report to rn). That was a challenge because we had to argue the safety of our ability levels in adults and why we couldn't accept assignments on an overwhelmed, understaffed floor. Bottom line: floating is uncomfortable but necessary evil sometimes.

I'm on a committee in my unit that is working on parent education and I'm wondering how do u teach or provide info to parents? Currently we have a folder with hospital/ unit info inside, a small booklet with general info about common diagnoses, staff, policies etc. Inside. We are thinking of making binders for each bedside (20) with all teaching topics related to nicu patients so that parents can read while visiting. Do any of you use this method? For those that use binders what are the pros and cons, are they utilized, what would you change? Our other idea is a small booklet and a file shelf with info near the hand wash station. So what works, what doesn't and any different suggestions? Thanks!