As a new nurse, what should I include in my end of day routine for shift change?
Be sure to walk around with the outgoing RN to "see" or do a quick assessment of each patient in or directly outside their room, as you are getting report. Bedside reports are key
I used to give the name, age, diagnosis and dr. then anything pertinent-vital signs , lab work, dressings, iv's, last prn meds-complaints, foleys or ng's if pertinent. if they had a good day or night. any other problems.
Make sure your patients are repositioned/clean/rooms ready to the next shift.
New bags of fluids if it has less than 2 hours left, prn meds if needed (pain/anxiety meds shouldn’t wear off during shift change), new tube feed syringes. If there is a med due at shift change, give it if possible/safe.
Check and make sure you documented, especially scanned/wasted meds.