RN Grad starting fresh in the ED!

[roses1130j]

I passed my NCLEX a month ago and was recently was hired in an ED. I inquired during my interview how and why this job would be offered to a new grad and the manager explained that the hospitals ED is well staffed and they can take the time and energy to train a new grad, my orientation is 14 to 16 weeks. Other thread posts have suggested that a new ED nurse won't feel comfortable until a year or so of practice anyway, gotta learn somehow.

I would like an experienced ER nurse to fill me in on some key points to know/practice/study/familiarize with before I start orienting and following my preceptor. I know some of you have worked with and possibly even precepted for a new grad in your ER; what annoyed you or frustrated you about specifics they didn't know or were completely oblivious too?

I'm a little nervous to start if you can't tell, but excited and confident I have what it takes. I'm high energy and like surprises. I also don't like to look like a fool or have to play guessing games, especially in that acute of a setting.

[medschoolgrl8, ASN, RN]

I have been in the ER for two years now.....there are going to be days where you have the best day on the planet and then there are going to be days where you question your every loving sanity. PALS ACLS TNCC--all of these certifications will have you saying "how did I ever without this information??" LISTEN LISTEN LISTEN. In the beginning I listened to the questions other nurses were asking, I listened to the doc's talking between themselves, the ER techs, the HUC's.....each and every single person is a part of your TEAM....these people are people you'll be working with for awhile so make sure that you foster good relationships. On that note...if you have an issue with someone, be diplomatic and address them, don't drag management in unless absolutely necessary~~again...if there is a way to solve a problem with honesty and a discussion...DO IT. Draw every tube when drawing, EKG first to detect heart attack, every IV comes out, DOUBLE CHECK YOUR PYXIS MEDS.....all of these are invaluable suggestions. For each type of patient there are the basic's that need to be done.....find out what these are!!! I learn new stuff all the time still....but I am finally understanding more....be quiet, ask questions (especially when giving a new med or ANY med~~nurses take care of one another usually) and try to get those certifications done.....good luck good luck good luck.