Still a new nurse?

[kkadi]

I've been a nurse for four years and I still feel like I don't know what I'm doing! I feel like I still don't know soooo much, always have questions.

I always feel overwhelmed, inadequate and question whether I've made the right decision in becoming a nurse. I feel like it will never 'click' for me. My biggest challenge seems to be prioritizing and organization. I've read some of the threads out there already regarding organization. Can someone offer some more advice on how to stay on top of everything there is to do throughout the coorifice of the day?

[uscstu4lfe]

maybe you're doing too much work? take a step back and do what is necessary. then, if you have enough time, do something extra. i always ask questions. new policies and procedures are always being implemented, so it's impossible to keep up. asking questions is just part of the job. there's a nurse where i work that has been there for like 40 years now (God I hope she retires soon) and she still asks questions.

[LovebugLPN]

I grab a room sheet when I come in every night and write what each patient needs for that shift. It includes that they need meds (and what time), vitals, peg feedings, etc. It keeps me more organized and less likely to forget anything.

[medsurgrnco, BSN, RN]

I make a column on my brains for things I need to remember to do for each specific patient that day labeled "Tasks" and another column for med times. Additionally, I have a printed up sheet listing tasks that regularly need to be done during the shift, listing things like chart checks. It may seem overkill, but it is a helpful reminder during hectic shifts so I don't forget anything. It can be very difficult to prioritize and organize your time if your patients/families think they are staying at the Ritz, CNAs are slacking on the job, you are given admits at inopportune times, or have a heavy group of patients. Hope this helps.

[BoonieNurse]

I do the same as medsurgrnco.... I work both 7p and 7a shifts and have a facesheet that I made up on my computer for each shift. It has a column of routine tasks that gets crossed off when each is completed.... things like: crash cart check, check vital board, check am lab results, sign graphics, assessments, accuchecks, sign in room forms, count narcs, tape report, accucheck QC, stock med carts, etc....