Use a Pocket Reference
David Woodruff
to help you manage complex therapies and equipment. Pocket references
and the clipboard companions are two type of clinical references that
you could use.
Pocket references allow you to put your facts into your pocket, rather
than trying to memorize facts, you are able to have them available to
you at the patient's bedside. There is way too much information for
nurses to know to be able to memorize everything you need. A pocket
reference allows you to be able to free your mind to think about your
patient, and to be able to use your critical thinking. Pocket
references can help you implement procedures and identify subtle signs
and symptoms, rather than having all of these facts cluttering up your
mind.
When you are faced with high acuity patients with high-tech equipment,
it is reassuring to know that you have the answers you need in your
pocket (or on your clipboard). Having the appropriate information
available at the patient’s bedside will increase your confidence and
help you to provide better care.