Transfer to the ED - what should I brush up on?

[EDNurse13]

I was offered a job in the ED and transfer in 6 weeks. I am VERY excited, I did my externship in an ED in Nursing school and worked as an EMT for a little while as well - I applied for the ED when I graduated school and again a year later so I am excited to be making the move.

Since Nursing school I spent a year working as a rehab nurse and then two years on a neuro floor ... I am a little intimidated by the vast knowledge deficit I think I have going into this new environment, I have done a LOT of neuro but not much else. Any advice on what to brush up on ? Where to go to do some reading?

Thank you

[Altra, BSN, RN]

Cardiac rhythms and cardiac s/s. If you don't currently have ACLS they will probably have you take it at the earliest possible opportunity. Also review what you know about pediatric patients, especially normal vitals for different age groups.

The rest will probably fall into place during your orientation. Welcome to the dark side -- I hope that you love it! :)

[Anna Flaxis, BSN, RN]

I think a lot of your neuro knowledge will transfer well to the ED, but just remember that in the ED, assessments tend to be more focused. I transferred to the ED from a cardiac background, and while I was very knowledgeable about rhythms and meds, I didn't need about 90% of that knowledge in the ED.

I agree with the above that most of what you need to know will probably fall into place during your orientation, but if you're a reader/researcher like I am, there are lots of publications about Emergency Nursing available for purchase. Also, you might consider joining the ENA. They have free (for members) CEs and you'll get a discount on the CEN exam when you're ready to take that.

1) Know your ACLS algorithms and drugs

2) A couple of helpful books, IMO: Sheehy's Manaul of Emergency Nursing and Jean Proehl's Emergency Nursing Procedures. I own each in hard copy and electronic copy

[turnforthenurse, MSN, NP]

I agree with ACLS. PALS is also helpful and more than likely required, even if you don't work in a children's ER.

I also second Sheehy's Manual of Emergency Nursing. It's very comprehensive. I also love Fast Facts for the ER Nurse and the Emergency Nursing: 5 Tier Triage Protocols.

I came from progressive care so there was definitely a learning curve for me. I've been making excellent progress and I'm always learning something new every day. If you're ever unsure of something, write it down and research it at home. I have had patients come in with rare diseases that I have never heard of. Also, ask the doctors regarding their rationale for doing something, most are happy to teach.