Terified

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Specializes in ICU-CCRN, CVICU, SRNA.

I just got a job in very well established Open heart unit. I have only 1 1/2 years medium acuity ICU experience and sometimes I have a hard time with IV sticks. On the other hand I have two bachelors and have a good head on me. Still, now that the excitement is down - I am terified..Please any Open heart nurses, share with me pointers about what it is like to work as OH nurse and how long it takes to be competent. Plz, everyone wish me luck because I might need it:P)

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Specializes in multispecialty ICU, SICU including CV.

You should be fine. We hire new grads and they (mostly) do ok with a little bit extra orientation than the others. At least you know what a critical patient is and you have a grip on what some of the drips are and how to monitor the lines. Just try to soak up as much as you can on orientation and cross your fingers for a good preceptor.

I don't start many PIVs on CV surgery patients. They all have Swans --- you aren't going to get a lot of opportunity to improve your IV start skills there.

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Specializes in ICU-CCRN, CVICU, SRNA.

Thank you so much for replying and the encouragment. I really am not so concerned about the IV's, maybe Ill go to the ER once in a while for practice. The unit is very well established but I dont know how the nurses are. They did mention that my ICu is community ICU and maybe not up to par with what they see. Anyways I am extra excited and after 3 months orientation I should be fine-I hope. Once again, thank you for your insight.

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Specializes in CVICU.

I was going to mention the same thing regarding IVs. OH patients should have the best IV access in the hospital with a swan and an introducer/cordis. The swan introducers we use have an infusion port the size of a pencil I swear.

As far as your previous experience, that's only a plus on your side but you will still have a ton to learn. You should do great.

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Talk to your charge nurse and find out which of the experienced nurses might be willing to mentor you. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Pick the nurses' brains. If you come across as a nurse who is willing to learn from peers, you'll do fine. Good Luck!

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Specializes in ICU-CCRN, CVICU, SRNA.

Thank you guys. I expect it to be challenging, lot of work and very rewarding experinece. I will probably use this forum with my novice questions and for support. Now - I have to quit my previous position. I know they will be upset - I have 5 months left on my 2 year contract(I intend to repay the agreed sum), but also because they really considered me a part of the team and mentored me. I am guiltridden, but I have an opportunity that many more experienced nurses would not pass by(not to mention 1/3 more in salary - buys a lot of diapers:)Guess just asking for advice as to how to explain this to my supervisor. Thank you.

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