Time management, prioritization and delegation Tips

[vintagemother, BSN, CNA, LVN, RN]

We have all learned about the challenges regarding prioritization, time management and delegation---especially if you are a new grad like me.

Perhaps this issue isn't as challenging for you as it is for me.

Some friends in nursing have told me that I struggle with these issues because I was a CNA turned LVN/LPN turned RN. I'm so used to doing everything that I don't know how to delegate.

Other nursing friends have told me that I struggle with these because I had 1 semester with a teacher which left me traumatized.

Other instructors have told me that being an LVN/LPN 1st was a detriment because I still think like an LVN/LPN.

That's my background. I feel like I am learning and growing as a new grad RN, now, though.

The down and dirty regarding what I've learned. It's not much, as I'm still in orientation, about 3.5 weeks in.

Not in any order:

1) use Down time to chart! Like when you are assisting a pt to the restroom, get on their computer in their room and chart while waiting for them to finish! Same thing when waiting on an MD. Open a computer and chart while you wait.

2) know which charting tasks can be completed with simple check marks. Tick those items off quickly.

3) do everything you can while you are in a particular setting. For example, if you are in the pts room, survey the room for safety, position them, ask about pain,tidy up, give meds, chart, etc. Don't run from room to room from 1 task to another. Instead, try to do as much as you can, quickly, before leaving.

or, if you are in the med room for 1 minor thing, take a moment to consider what else will need to be done within the next hr or so. Grab the next due pts meds while you are in the med room.

4) use your brain sheet!!!im not super efficient with mine...its full of scribbles! But it helps me stay on track. I know when meds are due, I know what assessments need to be done as well as which task I need to complete by looking at my brain.

If if anyone else has more tips, please add them!!!