PSYCH NURSE transferring to SURGICAL (post-op) Unit

[aloha_way_of_life]

Im asking for help from fellow nurses. Happy Nurses Week btw.

I've been given an opportunity to transfer into our surgical/peds, mostly (post) surgical unit in the hospital. Ive been a psychiatric nurse for 3.5 years now and have no medical/surgical experience. I use to work at Urgent Care prior to being a psych nurse and its been awhile!

I only have this one shot to do this. Unfortunately I will not be able to return back into the psych unit once Ive transferred over.

They are only giving us 4weeks to orient to the area and I could use all the suggestions, books, and teaching tools out there. Anything that helps me prepare for this transfer. I know it will be a difficult but rewarding experience and Im reaching out for support.

Thank you.

[Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN]

Moved to the medical-surgical forum to help you get more responses.

Your psych skills will serve you well in your new specialty: just because a patient is a med/surg patient doesn't mean that they check any psychiatric problems at the door. Good luck with the new job!

And remember, even if it's not to your old unit, you can always return to the dark side :)

[Lev, MSN, RN, NP]

I work on a (post-op) surgical unit. It's a great place to learn. It's very fast paced. A good report sheet is important. You need to be organized and efficient. At the beginning of the shift round on your patients, then start with assessments/meds right away. The first couple hours of the shift are the busiest. It's also important to delegate to your techs. Don't be afraid to ask them to do something. Ask questions and help out when you can. Also, use your charge nurse. If you need a blood draw, need help with an admission, etc. ask the charge nurse to help you. If your patient doesn't look right, trust your gut! Call your charge RN and activate rapid response. Don't hesitate! Know up front what you want to learn and tell your preceptor what skills you need help with.

[aloha_way_of_life]

Lev, do you have example of that report sheet that you mentioned about? Everything that you mentioned thus far have been on point. Thank you. They are great information!

Also with skills, I feel like theres a lot to learn in such a short period of time but Im sure even after the orientation I can still ask my preceptor.

Aloha.

[Lev, MSN, RN, NP]

Lev, do you have example of that report sheet that you mentioned about? Everything that you mentioned thus far have been on point. Thank you. They are great information!

Also with skills, I feel like theres a lot to learn in such a short period of time but Im sure even after the orientation I can still ask my preceptor.

Aloha.

There you go...a modified version of a report sheet I found on AN

Report Sheet Med surg.doc