[new_grad_ICU]

Does anyone have any suggestions for me? I am a new grad starting the ICU. I am looking for any and all advice I can get! We have 6months of training but I would like to go over anything I can ahead of time! Thanks!!

[RockinRobynRN]

The ICU can be an intimidating place for a new grad, even after 6 mos of orientation. However, you will learn volumes & will be a better nurse for it. The most important thing I think I learned was-#1 time management, but #2 know your drips!!! I work in a Surg/Trauma ICU and we use a lot of drugs that I wasn't familiar with prior to coming here (I worked ED previously). The ones we use frequently are: Neosynephrine, Levophed, Vasopressin, Dopamine, Dobutamine, etc. Those are the vasoactives that we use a lot in trauma. Also, it may be a good idea to buy a critical care reference book. I use one called "Fast Facts for Critical Care" or something like that. You can find it at cathywhite.com. It's definitely worth the money. Just remember to not get overwhelmed & ASK QUESTIONS!!! Don't ever be afraid to ask if you don't know something. You & your patients will fare better if you do. Hope that helps a little. Good luck!!!

[tyrock98]

Hey new grad,
I'm fairly new to the icu scene myself. Ive been working the icu for 2 years now and have picked up alot of knowledge in the last 2 years. A few things that have helped me out--Check out this book by dale dubin Rapid interpretation of EKGs it's one of the best for learning your heart rhythms. The book is read like a story and not just boring information, a little comedy thrown in to make it a good read. Another key piece of advice is to learn your drugs, I.E., nipride, dopamine, epinephrine, atropine, etc. Totally agree with rockinrobyn, asking questions is a must! Learing PA catheters is a little difficult - takes a lot of practice! Take an acls course and practice what you don't know and you will do great!