Telemetry tech

MochaFiend · Aug 30, 2016

Ah, I remember working nights as an ER Tech. Wear comfortable shoes (Asics work for me), have a back up pair of scrubs in your locker *just in case. You'll be obtaining vital signs, *carry at least 2-3 pens! Be prepared to draw blood *know your order of draw, you can also order a handy badge Order of Draw - Memory Guides for Phlebotomists, performing blood sugar checks, assisting with transporting patients to imaging or to the floor (your hospital may have transport teams for that), restocking patient rooms with supplies (in between patients -when time allows), helping the nurse with patient positioning as needed, fetching extra gowns, towels, and sheets as needed. Brush up on EKG lead placement incase you have to do EKG's. It's going to be fast and furious and beware of full moons! Okay, there might be "slow times" after 4am (I worked nights). Never ever - EVER say "It's a slow day/night" or that you're "bored". Drink tons of water and have some meal bars in your locker because the cafeteria isn't open 24/7 - trust me! Oh, pick up a lunch bag too! Put your name on it and bring stuff from home *just in case.

I know that was long. You may not need to assist with transporting because most hospitals have a transport staff specifically to keep you in the ER doing your job by helping those nurses and doc's take care of those in need.

It may seem overwhelming, because it is. But soon enough you'll know exactly what your position entails and how to make it all work out after a few shifts. Don't be afraid to ask for help and ask plenty of questions. You'll meet great nurses and doctors and just as many (hopefully less) of not so great ones. Congratulations!