New Grad in ICU

[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!

[jchris]

I am also a new grad who may begin my career in the ICU. i wish you luck and maybe we can share stories as we grow in the field of nursing. By the way RockinRobyn RN the website is call kathywhite.com but thanks for the info. I will definetely look into it.