Emergencies can be tense and overwhelming when it is the first experience for a nurse. Mandatory training for care staff is necessary to deal with such instances effectively and appropriately. Below is what is needed.
Always Plan
When an emergency isn’t immediate like a blocked airway, there is still time to plan your moves. Mandatory training for care staff may help avoid rush decisions. Planning maintains the focus on the patient’s needs and enhances the calmness of the nurse. Avoid shortcuts in the plan because doing the right thing is what matters.
Converse with the Patient
Patient direct information is vital for the decisions a nurse can make. Ask the patient question related to their care. If a patient is deviating to another topic about their families, request politely to redirect them such that they don’t feel ignored. It may be a stressful environment but avoid arguments with the patient.
Ask for Assistance
There is a notion that a nurse shouldn’t expect always to receive instructions on what to do. While this statement is true, it is safe to ask what to do when unsure since most of those who know probably learned it the same way. Ignore your pride and request for expert advice because human life is important than the ego. That is the essence of teamwork.
Focus on Vital Signs When in Doubt
Write down the vital signs if the patient is not in immediate risk. The notes will help you eliminate the problems that don’t require quick attention and focus on those that may not be obvious but need an immediate response. Additionally, it may help the experienced practitioner identify a missed problem at a glance.
Know How to Deal with the Aftermath
After a stressful emergency experience, whether successful or not, a nurse needs to deal with the emotional impacts. Take a little break to get yourself in control by closing eyes and taking deep breaths. However, you may choose what is useful to you. Talk with the senior nurses about how they dealt with emotions after such a difficult situation.
Early Preparation
Always be a step ahead in creating clear procedures for better reactions to emergencies. It is usual for nurses to work on unfamiliar environments and, therefore, always focus on locating the essential equipment and medicine on arrival. Listen to senior managers and Nurses.
Maintain Calmness
Concentrate on the moment to avoid losing focus on the patient due to anxiety. Apply calming methods such as taking deep breaths. Constant Practice outside the work environment improves the nurses’ response in emergencies.
Respond
If a patient is conscious, always talk to them to calm their nerves. Maintain a low voice in the conversation, including your interaction with colleagues. Explain to the patient the moment events and try to refer them by their name.
Remember the Basics
Airway, breathing, and circulation are the essential things to remember when in an emergency. Check the vitals and maintain teamwork.
Follow Your Instincts
Avoid focusing too much on theoretical knowledge. Do your best according to your wisdom and instincts.
Debrief
Go through the situation after completing the procedures with the team members to pick the necessary lessons.
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