keep the faith in yourself and your team. Knowing that your patients depend on you as a part of the team. I worked as Level I trauma RN for 35 years. Each day will try your knowledge/ experience/ patience but no two days are the same. If the hospital who hired you for this position, saw something in you to benefit this position/team. Never allow anyone to pressure you to do something or agree to anything that your gut goes against. Know what your state guidelines for your license. Good Luck. I hope you continue to enjoy NURSING as much as I did.
Working in the ER ESPECIALLY TRAUMA is demanding. It takes faith in yourself and trusting your values to get you through. Document as completely as you can. You talk about bending to pressure. Does that have to do with hours worked? Be careful to keep your schedule and don’t over extend. This can cause problems. I prayed allot.
It gets better as you gain more experience. Gets more interesting also.
Hi! I would like you to share more on what you describe as "bending to pressure". It is very stressful to work with trauma and death day after day. You could organize an ED support group. 10 to 15 minutes to de-escalate each shift. Lead by either you or a chaplain. If it is the chaplain. perhaps they could sit in a quiet area and allow staff to come in and out for reflection, as time allows. I am certain you are not the only one who feels this way. I remember working in the ED and not being able to unsee some of the casualties. Sharing my feelings in a small group, soon after some of the major cases, helped me survive the ED. Wishing you much success.
I always tell all new grad and people transitioning to develop their skills according to guidelines and take those skills with them. No one can make you ignore the guidelines.
Neuro troma unit
I was a military corpsman back in the era of dinosaurs. Trauma was an everyday event. I was dealing with the pressures by learning from every experience and looking for the next opportunity. Use your training and experience to remain positive. Do not be afraid to ask for help!
Chart every chance you get even if it's only 5 min. In the beginning it can be overwhelming completing the hands on task such as passing meds, dressing changes, and assisting with two person assist activities. Soon you will find your balance. Also, when you have a day that's TOUGH know that not all days are like that! Start your days excited and ready to help your patients get better. Make time for the gym to help with stress and it will also boost your confidence! You got this!
