swimrn80

Definitely sounds like you got shorted on your orientation. It is easy to feel overwhelmed when you get a new pt who is critical. I always just go back to the ABC's and once you have those checked off then vitals, line/labs and such. Sometimes docs get anxious/overwhelmed also and may come in the room barking out orders/freaking out. If you want to feel more competent with trauma see if you can get signed up for TNCC. It helps you learn a expanded ABCD ect.. list so you make sure that you covered everything. Also teaches about diff types of trauma. I think you would do fine with the exp you have so far. As far as triage goes I would try to stay out of that area if you can. It can mean a horrible shift for anyone Also you have been a nurse for 3 yrs, so just remember that you have nursing exp, you are just are just learning a different type of nursing- but the med/surg skills you have are useful. Hope things work out for you. Sounds like you want to be in the ER.