How to optimize the clinical experience

Question 1

How do you prioritize which patient to see first?

Answer 1

Who’s stable/unstable?
New pt?
Transfer?
Awaiting admission from ER or PACU
Check eMAR

Question 2

What are the components of an assessment?

Answer 2

Neurological
- Mental status, pupils, pain, restraints, family dynamic
Cardiovascular
- Cardiac rhythm, vital signs, pulses, edema, heart sounds, TV lines, IV fluids, events
Respiratory
- Lung sounds, supplemental oxygen, O2 sat, endotrach tube, ventilator changes, suction, chest tubes, drains, treatments
GI
- Diet, bowel sounds, bowel movement/drains, NG tube, tube feeds, nausea/vomiting
Genitourinary
- Voids, foley, continuous bladder irrigation, amount, color, odor, diuretics
Skin
- Color, wounds, treatments, specialty bed