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What does a typical day as a Critical Care Nurse in the Trauma Unit look like? ?
I'm curious to know what happens in the daily life of a Critical Care Nurse in the Trauma Unit. Could I get some more information? Thank You.
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Raquel’s Answer
Hello! I haven't worked in a trauma ICU, but did do clinical rotations in one. In a trauma ICU you'll be taking care of patients from serious car accidents, workplace accidents, and interpersonal violence among others. These are patients who are in extremely fragile conditions and are often on ventilators. You'll be taking care of several high risk med drips to keep them sedated and pain controlled. Assessments will be super important to know their status and any changes. You'll be paying attention to urine output and turning them frequently to prevent pressure ulcers. Many will also have serious wounds that will require care. It can be very emotionally taxing to work in that environment, but also very rewarding. You will have the opportunity to develop close relationships with patient family members through supporting them. In the morning, the physicians involved in your patients care (typically at least a CC hospitalist and a pulmonologist) will round on each of your patients. In this, you'll provide them with an extremely detailed report of how the patient is doing and update the plan of care. There's definitely much more to it, but I hope this helps some! Best of luck!
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Hannah’s Answer
Hi Ava! While I wasn't a trauma nurse, I worked as an inpatient oncology nurse and can share my experience with you. In a hospital setting, you'll care for patients who need a lot of attention. You'll be the main person giving medications, doing check-ups, teaching patients and their families, and letting doctors know if there are any concerns. In critical care, your daily plan might change often depending on how your patients are doing. I found nursing to be a very rewarding job and hope you will too!