snowcat

Probably one of the most challenging things when being a new nurse is getting priorities right and developing a keen sense of medical logic. Turning up the O2 is a prime example. Knowing what is a serious disaster versus what you can simply do better the next time can be confusing when first starting out. Thank God for those kind mentor-type experienced nurses!

Even if the tubing was connected, why would you take the time to call the Dr. if the pt's sat was in the 8os? Turn up the O2, put on a mask if needed.

Working as a radiation oncology nurse involves close communication with the therapists. I think the benefit of being a RT vs RN would be you have close contact with the patient but not usuually as intense since your time is limited to the time the pt is on the table. An RT is a skilled technician in their field, they are the ones that run the Linnear Accelerator delivering the radiation. The benefit of being an RN is you can change your department many times over the years. If you get tired of oncology you can work in numerous different fields. Merely my opinion.........

Thanks CC-do! I'll take that advice with me this week

Thanks for the replies. Yes I do think this could be one of the the better nursing jobs available and I really want to succeed because of that. And, it is definitely a team approach when that patient arrives....maybe that is why I feel a bit incomptetant because the team is like a well oiled machine and then there is me, definitely feeling shy. I think you are right though in stating 12 days isn't so much. About to start another week so hopefully I will do better and not hold back.....

Hi all experienced PACU RNs! I have just started working (finished 12 days of orientation) in an outpatient surgery center with no previous recovery room experience. My background is home health for the past 6yrs and 4 years of med-sug prior to that. I really want this PACU job to go well but am having a difficult time remembering all the nuances of different docs and keeping up with the experienced staff. There are so many things I like about this department - the team work, my co-workers, the fix-m-up and dc, and the fast pace. I especially have trouble when the patient first arrives although the whole team helps....the monitors make me feel like an idiot! I really want to stay in this area but am doubting my capability Any words of wisdom, suggestions, would be much appreciated.