emergencynursy

We have a "fast track" that sees Level 4's and 5's, but it's one nurse and one PA. It's 5 rooms.

I had to be medicated! Adderall was my enemy in high school, but I've learned to cope with taking it. I found that taking smaller amounts three times a day helps keep me focused all day. Medication has saved my butt!! Having my areas organized helps a lot, I make sure all rooms are stocked in the morning, and that I have all supplies at hand. I always carry scissors and tape on me so I don't have to go searching for some, and get distracted during the process. Eating a good breakfast and lunch helps as well.

We usually do. Most of our psych patients and homocidal/suicidal. Even if they're frequent flyers, and they're just there for the sandwiches, they're still a Level 2. The only psych we don't triage as Level 2 is someone who is having anxiety or depression w/o SI/HI.

I've finally hit my one-year mark as an emergency nurse, and now I'm allowed to triage. Our department uses the "nurse first" and an RN is the first person the patient sees as they're checking in. When the department is short-staffed and our rooms are full, it gets difficult to get patients back. We are the only hospital in town, and patients tend to get frustrated when they cannot be seen after 4 hours for a minor problem. My question is, how do you guys deal with the patients who beat on the windows, yell and curse at the nurses, and fall out in the floor into a temper tantrum? My patience is wearing thin, and I could definitely use some tips! How do you triage your patients in your ER? How do you keep a steady flow as a triage nurse? How do you control patients when your security isn't helping?

Thank you! That is so helpful! I appreciate you taking the time to give me some pointers. :)

Starting after I pass boards June 3rd. Any tips for the brand new graduate nurse starting in the ER?

I graduated nursing school May 12th, and I take boards June 3rd. Then, I will start my job as a brand-spankin' new ER nurse! I know most people say, "get med/surg experience first!" but I saw the opportunity, and I jumped on it. Any tips that any one would like to share with me regarding ER nursing or nursing in general? Thanks in advance!