lifesagarden

Also, know psych drugs, dosages and route. Most can't be given IV, cause widening of QRS leading to cardiac arrest

I agree, it's time to start looking!! In these toxic environments, the only time changes are made (or actually implemented) is when, not if, a patient has an adverse outcome and the family takes their complaint up the chain. Personally, I would advise you to protect your license, your health and your sanity:wacky: ...besides, you were looking for a job when you found that one. Hope this might help

I agree that a positive attitude will go very far; as will being a team player. Volunteer to assist another nurse if you and your preceptor aren't busy. Besides practicing basic skills and recognizing most common s/s of diseases, decompensating pt condition, etc. be open to criticism. Although I firmly believe that you praise in public and criticize in private, not all people (or ER Nurses) hold my same values. Develop a thick skin because during a true emergency when pt's are dying there is no place for egos or a sense of entitlement. There may be raised voices, not every one says "please". If any mistakes happen on your part learn from them and accept accountibility; likewise, learn from other's mistakes as well. Basically, in the beginning, it is best to observe the inner workings of the ED by keeping your eyes and ears open and your mouth shut....remember, NO one knows everything. We, as nurses, are always learning. Ask as many questions as you can; or write them down so you can ask the next shift your there. You can learn as much from me as I can from you. Most seasoned nurses will bend over backwards to teach and help students, but not if the students are slacking or being disrespectful. Last tidbit....ER nursing is controlled chaos!! Much of what we do everyday is a fine balance of skill, common sense, curiosity, intelligence, compassion, and stubbornness (is that a word?? ) Try to look at this facet of nursing like a game of chess. You have to think a few moves ahead for most outcomes to your interventions, whether positive or negative. Most of all learn as much as possible and have fun!! Hope this helps...