Your first year as a registered nurse is challenging. This podcast is hosted by Kati Kleber, BSN RN CCRN and features experienced nurses from FreshRN.com, who discuss the basics of that first year. From orientation, code blues, tricks of the trade, and personal experiences, to time management, delegation, patient deaths, and more.
If I could hop in a time machine and redo my journey to becoming a nurse, knowing what I know now... I’d take a very different path (and spend a lot less money). In this episode, I’m walking you through what I actually did: From changing majors to juggling basketball and nursing school, and what I’d do differently if I could go back.
We’ll talk about:
✅ Why I wish I’d started as a CNA in high school
✅ How going the ADN route first could’ve saved me thousands
✅ What I learned about tuition reimbursement and scholarships the hard way
✅ The importance of progress over perfection when planning your nursing path
Plus, I’ll share some encouragement for anyone stuck in decision paralysis, trying to figure out their next step. Your nursing journey doesn’t have to be perfect to be worth it, and there are so many smart, affordable ways to get where you want to go.
My free workbook that will help you map out costs, pros/cons of different schools, applications, and more: https://www.freshrn.com/planner/
Sign up for my email list: https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up
My nursing degrees and programs learning hub: https://www.freshrn.com/nursing-degrees-and-programs/
Need to take out loans? Check out my partner, Juno, to join a collective bargaining group and score lower interest rates better than the big-name lenders (the 2025-2026 rates start at 3.47%!). Free to join, and it can save you thousands → https://www.freshrn.com/juno
Connect With Me Online! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshRN X: https://x.com/Kati_Kleber Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Fresh_RN/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kati_kleber/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@freshrn YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@freshrn
Ok that title might be a little spicy, but stick with me. In this episode, I discuss why so many of us over-identify with our roles, how “we’re a family” culture keeps us stuck, and what learned helplessness looks like at the bedside. We’ll also talk about the sneaky way suffering becomes a badge of honor, and how to step out of that martyr mindset.
Sign up for my email list: https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up
My professional development learning hub: https://www.freshrn.com/professional-development/
In this episode, we’re diving into what happens when perfectionism collides with the messy, high-pressure reality of nursing. If you’ve ever felt like your entire identity is wrapped up in being the “good nurse” ... you know, the one who never messes up, never says no, and always holds it together, this conversation is for you.
We’ll talk about:
Join my email list, already! https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up
Get thoughtful support, freebies, and honest pep talks straight to your inbox:
If you want to learn more about self-compassion, check out the resources from Dr. Kristin Neff: https://self-compassion.org/
Need to take out loans? Use Juno to join a collective bargaining group and score lower interest rates—usually 1–4% better than the big-name lenders. Free to join, and it can save you thousands → https://www.freshrn.com/juno
Connect With Me Online! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshRN X: https://x.com/Kati_Kleber Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Fresh_RN/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kati_kleber/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@freshrn YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@freshrn
In this episode, I interviews Dr. Kelly J. Dries, Ph.D., RN, Director of Nursing Program Success at Wolters Kluwer Health. As a former dean of a nursing school, Dr. Dries shares:
Article Kelly mentions: https://www.dailynurse.com/solving-the-nursing-shortage-starts-with-investing-in-educators
Conversational AI tech article: https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/news/wolters-kluwer-and-laerdal-medical-enhance-vr-simulation-for-nursing-education-with-conversational-a
My free workbook that will help you map out costs, pros/cons of different schools, applications and more: https://www.freshrn.com/planner/
Money-Saving Tip: Private student loans tend to have higher rates and stricter terms compared to federal options. That’s why it’s smart to shop around. Services like Juno let you tap into group-negotiated loan rates, sometimes cutting interest by up to 4%. Signing up is free, and even a 1% lower rate could save you thousands over the life of your loan - https://www.freshrn.com/juno
Sign up for my email list: https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up
My nursing degrees and programs learning hub: https://www.freshrn.com/nursing-degrees-and-programs/
In this episode, I sit down with Sarah Michelle Boes, FNP, a nurse practitioner and board prep expert who’s helped thousands of aspiring NPs pass their exams with confidence. We talk about what it’s really like to go through the certification process, how to choose the right study tools, and what Sarah wishes every NP student knew before sitting for the test.
We cover:
My NP blog post: https://www.freshrn.com/how-to-choose-an-np-program/
My top NCLEX prep programs: https://www.freshrn.com/best-nclex-reviews/
Article on her entrepreneurial journey: https://theygotacquired.com/content/sarah-michelle-np-reviews-acquired-by-blueprint-prep/
Sarah's NP board prep website (with a lot of NP resources): https://www.npreviews.com/
My free workbook that will help you map out costs, pros/cons of different schools, applications, and more: https://www.freshrn.com/planner/
Sign up for my email list: https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up
My nursing degrees and programs learning hub: https://www.freshrn.com/nursing-degrees-and-programs/
Need to take out loans? Check out my partner, Juno, to join a collective bargaining group and score lower interest rates better than the big-name lenders (the 2025-2026 rates start at 3.47%!). Free to join, and it can save you thousands → https://www.freshrn.com/juno
Connect With Me Online! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshRN X: https://x.com/Kati_Kleber Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Fresh_RN/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kati_kleber/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@freshrn YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@freshrn
All of the NP track options are confusing. I'm Kati Kleber, an MSN-prepared nurse educator and in this video I'll explain the FNP role and differentiate it from other NP tracks.
Full article → https://www.freshrn.com/fnp-vs-agacnp/
We discuss:
I have a platform full of free resources for current and prospective nurses. Here are a few!
The ultimate guide to different NP speciality options → https://www.freshrn.com/online-nurse-practitioner-programs/
Resource hub of nursing degrees and programs → https://www.freshrn.com/nursing-degrees-and-programs/
Free nursing school planning workbook: Compare schools, track tuition, and plan your next move (RN or grad school) → https://www.freshrn.com/planner/
Need to take out loans? Use Juno to join a collective bargaining group and score lower interest rates—usually 1–4% better than the big-name lenders. Free to join, and it can save you thousands → https://www.freshrn.com/juno
Join 30K+ nurses: Real talk. Career clarity. Nurse-to-nurse tips straight to your inbox → https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up
Connect With Me Online!
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/FreshRN
X: https://x.com/Kati_Kleber
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Fresh_RN/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kati_kleber/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@freshrn
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@freshrn
Thinking about going back to school to earn your Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) but feeling overwhelmed by what it actually means? In this episode, I break down what the DNP is, who it’s for, how it compares to an MSN or PhD, and share perspectives from DNP and DNAP-prepared nurses.
I outline:
Get your free workbook → If you're thinking about nursing school (at any level), this workbook will help you compare programs, weigh decisions, track finances, and more → https://www.freshrn.com/planner/
Read the article → https://www.freshrn.com/online-dnp-programs/
Want more support in your inbox? Join my email list to get exclusive content, encouragement, and nursing school tips I only share with subscribers → https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up/
Heads up → Even a small difference in your loan’s interest rate can add up to thousands over time. Before signing for a private loan, check what kind of rates you could qualify for through Juno. They use group buying power to negotiate lower rates for borrowers, often beating standard offers by 1–2%. It’s free to sign up with zero committment, and it could mean major savings down the road. Let's go! https://www.freshrn.com/juno
I have been keeping my eye on NCLEX prep products for at least a decade and because of this, I maintain a checklist of features that make a program superior. I know a good one when I see one, what a reasonable price looks like, and what really moves the needle.
In this episode, I explain my top three in detail. I would 10/10 use any of these if I were studying for the NCLEX again. (But thank GOSH I don't have to do that!)
You can read the full blog post (with all the links) here:
https://www.freshrn.com/best-nclex-reviews/
If you decide to give TrueLearn a try, use my promo code FRESHRN to get 20% off: https://truelearn.com/nursing/
Want more NCLEX tips + new grad support? Join my email list for exclusive resources and updates → https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up
And if you need private loans for school, check out my partner Juno to potentially save thousands through group rate negotiation →
https://www.freshrn.com/juno
Are online nursing degrees respected? Do employers take them seriously? What about clinicals and accreditation? In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Karen Cox, President of Chamberlain University—the largest nursing school in the U.S.—to tackle the most common misconceptions about online nursing education.
We cover things like:
We even discuss her career path from LPN to PhD! (Yes, just took every step in between: LPN, ADN, BSN, MSN, and finally PhD!) So, if you're interested in an online program or if you're curious about the path of a PhD-prepared RN, this episode is for you.
Link to the article on social determinants of learning that we mentioned: https://www.chamberlain.edu/about/social-determinants-of-learning
New FreshRN freebie alert! I created a workbook to help you compare nursing schools (at any level) + track costs + map out your best path. Get it at no cost at https://www.freshrn.com/planner/
Don't overpay for student loans, people. After you max out your school's financial aid package and select your federal loans, most people have to take out private loans to bridge the gap. Make sure you're getting the best interest rate possible because even just 1-2% more can cost thousands over the lifetime of the loan. My new partner, Juno, uses group bargaining power to get lower interest rates, as much as 4% below market rates. It's free to join and check their rates to compare to yours before you sign on the dotted line. Use my link to sign up for free with no commitment here: https://www.freshrn.com/juno
Get on my email list already! https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up/
Considering getting your Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) but feeling totally overwhelmed by the options? You’re not alone. In this episode, I break down what an MSN actually is (and what it isn’t), the difference between clinical and non-clinical paths, and how to choose a program that aligns with your goals, not just what seems affordable or popular. You’ll learn: * What an MSN really means (and why it’s not a job title) * The difference between clinical MSN paths (like NP and CNS) vs. non-clinical paths (like education or leadership) * What an APRN is, and how licensure + certification work * Common program formats, including direct-entry, competency-based, and post-master’s certificates * How to reverse-engineer your education based on the career you actually want * Why clarity now can save you time, money, and frustration later
Free Resource: Download my Nursing School Planner to compare programs, track costs, and reflect on your long-term goals → FreshRN.com/planner Read the full blog post: https://www.freshrn.com/msn-programs/ Want more support and clarity? Sign up for my email list → https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up/
In this episode, I’m joined by Ali Morin, MSN, RN-BC, CNIO, to talk about a topic that’s generating a lot of buzz (and questions): AI in nursing. We dive into how artificial intelligence is already being used in clinical settings—like fall prevention, EMR automation, staffing optimization, and more. Ali shares her journey from pediatric critical care nurse to informatics leader and offers a clear, thoughtful breakdown of what AI can really do for nurses at the bedside. We also explore: * How AI is helping reduce burnout and documentation overload * Why trust is a major barrier for nurses with new tech * What nurse leaders need to know about integrating AI tools * A hopeful vision of what a med-surg shift could look like 20 years from now * Insight on her professional nursing journey to informatics
Whether you’re a student, new grad, or experienced nurse feeling overwhelmed by clunky workflows—this episode will give you clarity, hope, and a realistic take on where nursing and technology are headed. “AI can never replace the human touch—but it can absolutely take work off your plate.” Want more insights like this? Head over to https://www.freshrn.com and sign up for our email list! You’ll get helpful, non-spammy updates packed with practical tips, resources, and encouragement—especially for new nurses navigating real-world practice. For our nursing school planner, head to https://www.freshrn.com/planner
Ever wondered what it’s like to be in a BSN program today? In this episode, I interview Padraic Day, a current BSN nursing student who shares his firsthand experience balancing the classroom, clinicals, and his role as a nurse extern in the MICU.
What You’ll Learn:
Whether you’re a nursing student, aspiring nurse, or just curious about the path to becoming a nurse, this episode is packed with relatable insights and tips. And for those of us who have been around for a while, it's interesting to hear what nursing school is like in 2024!
If you want access to ALL of our FreshRN resources, check out the FreshRN All-Access Pass ➡️ https://www.freshrn.com/all-access/
Free Nursing Resources 👇
Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at: https://www.freshrn.com/
Connect With Me Online!
In this enlightening interview, I sit down with Jennifer Flynn, a seasoned expert in risk management and professional liability. With over 24 years of experience in healthcare insurance, Jennifer brings her wealth of knowledge to help nurses navigate the complex world of liability, patient safety, and quality management.
What We Discuss:
✅ Common scenarios where nurses might need to use their liability insurance—step-by-step insights.
✅ The Rhadonda Vaught case: How typical (or atypical) are criminal charges against nurses for medical errors? Should nurses be concerned?
✅ Practical, actionable strategies to minimize liability risks while enhancing patient safety.
✅ Breaking down the differences between employer-provided malpractice coverage and individual liability insurance.
Jennifer also shares tips to empower nurses to protect themselves professionally while delivering excellent patient care.
About Jennifer Flynn:
Jennifer is the Vice President of Risk Management for Nurses Service Organization in the Healthcare Division of Aon’s Affinity Insurance Services, Inc. She is a Certified Professional in Healthcare Risk Management, published author, and frequent national speaker on healthcare risk and liability topics. Jennifer is dedicated to educating healthcare professionals about liability risks and strategies to support patient safety.
Hub of helpful articles related to nursing risk management: https://www.nso.com/risk-management/individuals
For show notes and the video interview, click here: https://www.freshrn.com/is-insurance-for-nurses-worth-it/
Free Nursing Resources 👇
Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at: https://www.freshrn.com/
Connect With Me Online!
[PARTIAL DOSE] Ever had a patient or their loved one really frustrated that they haven't received diagnostic results immediately after they were completed? Not sure how to handle that with tact and care? In today's bonus episode, I discuss how to handle this very specific yet common situation for bedside nurses so you can feel like a pro.
Click here to learn more: https://www.freshrn.com/all-access/
In this mini-bonus episode, I’m sharing my favorite go-to potluck items for RN gatherings! These are all easy, require minimal to no cooking/baking but are so delicious.
Plus, don’t forget—our FreshRN Black Friday Sale kicks off TOMORROW! Get access to our all-inclusive membership for the lowest price of the year.
• $57/month (normally $97)
• $587/year (normally $997)
Link to learn more about the pass: https://www.freshrn.com/all-access/
Make sure to snag these deals while they last. Join the FreshRN community to build confidence, master critical skills, and love your nursing career again.
In this episode, we dive into the art of giving and receiving nursing reports during your shift—especially when the pressure is on. Whether you’re dealing with nit-picky nurses, feeling intimidated by experienced colleagues, or handling less-than-friendly handoffs, this episode is for you.
We’ll share realistic examples of challenging moments, offer strategies for managing your emotions and reactions, and teach you how to respond with confidence and professionalism. Plus, I introduce my new Nursing Report Masterclass, part of the New Grad RN Toolkit, designed to help you feel prepared and empowered in your nursing career.
👉 Ready to level up your report skills? Check out the Nursing Report Masterclass at https://www.courses.freshrn.com/p/toolkit
Get notified about my Black Friday sale + a special discount ➡️ https://www.freshrn.com/black-friday-ready/
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/FKr5QETZFbU
Here’s what we cover:
[0:27] Overview of the Report Masterclass
[3:03] Examples of tricky interactions with off-going/oncoming nurses
[5:38] Strategies to handle these moments gracefully
[8:16] How to offer gentle pushback
[16:33] Managing consistent negativity
{22:50] A sneak peek into my New Grad RN Toolkit
If you’re a new nurse, this episode will give you the tools to navigate one of the most challenging parts of your shift with poise. Tune in and take the first step toward mastering your nursing reports!
Free Nursing Resources 👇
Cardiac content: https://www.freshrn.com/cardiac-nursing/
Neuro content: https://www.freshrn.com/neuro-nursing/
Jobs and interviews: https://www.freshrn.com/nursing-jobs-interviews/
Nursing school: https://www.freshrn.com/nursing-student/
Ortho content: https://www.freshrn.com/ortho-nursing/
New grad support: https://www.freshrn.com/new-grad-nursing/
Professional development: https://www.freshrn.com/professional-development/
Critical care: https://www.freshrn.com/critical-care-icu-nursing/
Med-surg: https://www.freshrn.com/med-surg-nursing/
Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at: https://www.freshrn.com/
Click here for my podcast for students and new nurses: https://www.freshrn.com/podcast
Connect With Me Online!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshRN
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Kati_Kleber
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Fresh_RN/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kati_kleber/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@freshrn
In this episode, we dive into the art of giving and receiving nursing reports during your shift—especially when the pressure is on. Whether you’re dealing with nit-picky nurses, feeling intimidated by experienced colleagues, or handling less-than-friendly handoffs, this episode is for you.
We’ll share realistic examples of challenging moments, offer strategies for managing your emotions and reactions, and teach you how to respond with confidence and professionalism. Plus, I introduce my new Nursing Report Masterclass, part of the New Grad RN Toolkit, designed to help you feel prepared and empowered in your nursing career.
👉 Ready to level up your report skills? Check out the Nursing Report Masterclass at https://www.courses.freshrn.com/p/toolkit
Get notified about my Black Friday sale + a special discount ➡️ https://www.freshrn.com/black-friday-ready/
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/FKr5QETZFbU
Here’s what we cover:
[0:27] Overview of the Report Masterclass
[3:03] Examples of tricky interactions with off-going/oncoming nurses
[5:38] Strategies to handle these moments gracefully
[8:16] How to offer gentle pushback
[16:33] Managing consistent negativity
{22:50] A sneak peek into my New Grad RN Toolkit
If you’re a new nurse, this episode will give you the tools to navigate one of the most challenging parts of your shift with poise. Tune in and take the first step toward mastering your nursing reports!
Free Nursing Resources 👇
Cardiac content: https://www.freshrn.com/cardiac-nursing/
Neuro content: https://www.freshrn.com/neuro-nursing/
Jobs and interviews: https://www.freshrn.com/nursing-jobs-interviews/
Nursing school: https://www.freshrn.com/nursing-student/
Ortho content: https://www.freshrn.com/ortho-nursing/
New grad support: https://www.freshrn.com/new-grad-nursing/
Professional development: https://www.freshrn.com/professional-development/
Critical care: https://www.freshrn.com/critical-care-icu-nursing/
Med-surg: https://www.freshrn.com/med-surg-nursing/
Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at: https://www.freshrn.com/
Click here for my podcast for students and new nurses: https://www.freshrn.com/podcast
Connect With Me Online!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshRN
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Kati_Kleber
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Fresh_RN/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kati_kleber/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@freshrn
Are you preparing for a nursing job interview? Before you accept that offer, make sure you’re aware of the red flags that could signal a toxic work environment, burnout, or lack of support. In this video, we’ll uncover the most important warning signs every nurse should look out for during an interview—from vague answers about staffing ratios to comments about workload and training.
Whether you’re a new grad or an experienced nurse switching specialties, spotting these red flags early can save you from a stressful experience later on. We’ll cover what questions to ask, the subtle cues to observe, and how to trust your gut instincts to make the best decision for your career and well-being.
Get notified about our Black Friday sale early with an exclusive discount: https://www.freshrn.com/black-friday-ready/
Learn more about Hired: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/hired
Get on my email list here: https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up/
Click here for my podcast for students and new nurses: https://www.freshrn.com/podcast
Connect With Me Online!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshRN
X: https://X.com/Kati_Kleber
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Fresh_RN/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kati_kleber/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@freshrn
In today’s episode, expect to learn 10 different smart questions to ask in an interview. We first will discuss questions to ask during a screening interview with a general hiring manager, and then more specific questions for an interview with a nurse manager who could potentially be your next boss! Make a great impression with these thoughtful questions.
If you want to have a written version of this, check out this blog post: https://www.freshrn.com/questions-to-ask-during-a-nursing-interview/
Check out the Hired course here: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/hired
Sign up for the FreshRN email list here: https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up/
The FreshRN New Nurse Toolkit: https://www.courses.freshrn.com/p/toolkit
In today’s episode, expect to learn 10 different smart questions to ask in an interview. We first will discuss questions to ask during a screening interview with a general hiring manager, and then more specific questions for an interview with a nurse manager who could potentially be your next boss! Make a great impression with these thoughtful questions.
If you want to have a written version of this, check out this blog post: https://www.freshrn.com/questions-to-ask-during-a-nursing-interview/
Check out the Hired course here: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/hired
Sign up for the FreshRN email list here: https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up/
The FreshRN New Nurse Toolkit: https://www.courses.freshrn.com/p/toolkit
We dig into a reader question for a newer charger nurse + some encouragement for those of you thinking of quitting.
0:14 Why I do this
1:46 My college journey and the price tag
3:44 Encouragement from Leah, RN
5:09 A helpful nursing resource
5:33 Career experience from Joy, RN
6:11 Encouragement from Jennifer, RN
6:46 Charge RN question from "Sarah"
8:54 Stepping into your earned authority
10:04 Dealing with challenging personalities
12:17 It's giving professional
13:50 Being a charge RN is like being the coach for a shift
15:54 What to do with gossip in the moment
17:19 Run a tight ship
19:14 A team mentality works tbh
23:05 Pls share kthanksbye
My course for new charge nurses: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/charge-nurse-jump-start
Crafting Your Dream Career (affiliate link): https://freshrn--wholelifenurse.thrivecart.com/cydc/
All-Access Pass: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/membership
YouTube video on Commanding Respect vs. Earned Authority: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FEzmFieWtUY&t=16s
Sign up for my email list: https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up/
My blog: https://www.freshrn.com/blog/
Follow me on social!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshRN
X: https://x.com/Kati_Kleber
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Fresh_RN/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kati_kleber/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@freshrn
This episode is part of a PodSwap, where we swap episodes so each of our audiences can learn from one another! We are swapping episodes with Nurse Mo, MSN RN from Straight A Nursing. She currently works in the PACU, teaches in a BSN program, and manages her educational platform for nursing students.
In this episode, Nurse Mo is sharing all the reasons why older nursing students can (and do!) thrive in their programs. Hit play on this episode so you can focus on the positives, recognize your strengths, and realize it’s not too late to follow your dream!
(affiliate) Crucial Concepts Bootcamp - Start nursing school ahead of the game, or reset after a difficult first semester with this nursing school prep course, Crucial Concepts Bootcamp. Learn key foundation concepts, organization and time management, dosage calculations, and so much more.
FREE CLASS – If all you’ve heard are nursing school horror stories, then you need this class! Join me in this on-demand session where I dispel all those nursing school myths and show you that YES… you can thrive in nursing school without it taking over your life!
Straight A Nursing Website - Learn nursing concepts and get tips to help you thrive in school and at the bedside.
Learn more about the FreshRN All-Access Pass here: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/membership
To see our latest course catalog (med-surg, ICU, precepting, charge nurse, ortho, cardiac, neuro courses, and more), click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/
Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside, and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at: https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up/
Connect With Me Online!
Music credit: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard
We sit down with Will Kelly, MSN FNP-BC, who has experience as a telemetry nurse, ER nurse, ER nurse practitioner, and inpatient hospitalist. We discuss:
For ALL of our ICU nursing content: https://www.freshrn.com/critical-care-icu-nursing/
For our free mini-course ICU Drips For Beginners, click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/icu-drips-for-beginners
For a 14-page ECG cheatsheet: https://bit.ly/3Ws75NT
Will’s FreshRN course, ECG Rhythm Master: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/ecgmastery
To learn more about our comprehensive ICU prep course, Breakthrough ICU: A Crash Course For New ICU Nurses, click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/breakthrough-icu
Learn more about the FreshRN All-Access Pass here: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/membership
To see our latest course catalog (med-surg, ICU, precepting, charge nurse, ortho, cardiac, neuro courses, and more), click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/
Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside, and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at: https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up/
Check out Will’s resources and website here: http://healthandwillness.org/
Connect With Me Online!
Music credit: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard
In this interview, Kati chats with Jeannie Cisney, MSN RN. She is a 20+ year veteran of the CVICU (cardiovascular intensive care unit). We discuss:
Jeannie is my co-author of Cardiac Confidence, a Crash Course for New Cardiac Nurses. To learn more and enroll, click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/cardiac-confidence
For a 14-page ECG cheatsheet: https://bit.ly/3Ws75NT
For a free mini-course on how to handle afib with RVR: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/afib-with-rvr
For my cardiac assessment checklist: https://bit.ly/4aV6RTO
For ALL of our cardiac content: https://www.freshrn.com/cardiac-nursing/
Learn more about the FreshRN All-Access Pass here - https://courses.freshrn.com/p/membership
To see our latest course catalog (med-surg, ICU, precepting, charge nurse, ortho, cardiac, neuro courses, and more), click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/
Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside, and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at: https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up/
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Music credit: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard
In this episode, we are re-sharing an episode where we sit down with Sean Dent, DNP ACNP APRN, a highly experienced ICU nurse practitioner. We dig deep into the types of equipment you’ll run into in the ICU. These include:
These episodes were originally recorded in 2019, but the information is still incredibly relevant today for ICU nurses. This content is for informational purposes only; best practices may have changed.
For ALL of our ICU nursing content: https://www.freshrn.com/critical-care-icu-nursing/
For our free mini-course ICU Drips For Beginners, click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/icu-drips-for-beginners
To learn more about our comprehensive ICU prep course, Breakthrough ICU: A Crash Course For New ICU Nurses, click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/breakthrough-icu
Learn more about the FreshRN All-Access Pass here - https://courses.freshrn.com/p/membership
To see our latest course catalog (med-surg, ICU, precepting, charge nurse, ortho, cardiac, neuro courses and more), click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/
Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside, and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at: https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up/
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Music credit: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard
In this episode, Kati interviews Elizabeth Fields, MSN FNP APRN, a nurse practitioner specializing in orthopedics. She sees patients in the hospital after they undergo ortho surgery, so she works closely with acute care ortho nurses! In this episode, we discuss:
If you want to catch the video of this interview AND get a PDF summary download of notes, click here: https://bit.ly/3wgp66S
If you enjoyed Elizabeth’s perspective, check out our comprehensive online course created just for new ortho nurses - Ortho STRONG: A Crash Course For New Ortho Nurses - https://courses.freshrn.com/p/ortho-nurse-crash-course
Learn more about the FreshRN All-Access Pass here - https://courses.freshrn.com/p/membership
To see our latest course catalog (med-surg, ICU, precepting, charge nurse, ortho, cardiac, neuro courses and more), click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/
Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at: https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up/
Connect With Me Online!
Music credit: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard
In this episode, Kati and two nursing professionals who interview new grad nurses for a well-known accredited nurse residency program walk through four common interview questions. We explore a bad and sub-par response as well as examples of dazzling responses.
The questions we outline are:
For full notes on this episode, click here: https://www.freshrn.com/nursing-interview-questions-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly/
For ALL of our nurse jobs and interview content: https://www.freshrn.com/nursing-jobs-interviews/
For our free 3-pack templates of nurse resumes, click here: https://bit.ly/3UIXpgI
For a PDF of the most common nurse interview questions, click here: https://bit.ly/3UGhsfu
For our ultimate guide to mastering nurse resumes and interviews, Hired, click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/hired
Learn more about the FreshRN All-Access Pass here - https://courses.freshrn.com/p/membership
To see our latest course catalog (med-surg, ICU, precepting, charge nurse, ortho, cardiac, neuro courses, and more), click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/
Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside, and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at: https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up/
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Music credit: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard
Giving and receiving hand-off from an experienced nurse is pretty overwhelming to a nursing student or newly licensed nurse. In this previously released episode, Kati and Elizabeth discuss:
Notes of this episode: https://www.freshrn.com/nursing-report-for-newbies/
For ALL of our new nurse content: https://www.freshrn.com/new-grad-nursing/
For ALL of our med-surg content: https://www.freshrn.com/med-surg-nursing/
For a free mini-course on report tips for new nurses (including my fave report sheet), click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/med-surg-report-basics
To learn more about our comprehensive med-surg crash course, Med-Surg Mindset, click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/med-surg-mindset
Learn more about the FreshRN All-Access Pass here - https://courses.freshrn.com/p/membership
To see our latest course catalog (med-surg, ICU, precepting, charge nurse, ortho, cardiac, neuro courses, and more), click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/
Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside, and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at: https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up/
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Music credit: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard
This interview comes from the archives! Kati interviewed Beth Hawks, MSN RN-BC, a highly experienced and amazing nursing professional development specialist and preceptor, on tips for new nurse preceptors. Expect to learn:
As a bonus, this interview is a sneak peek into the valuable content you can expect from Kati’s comprehensive course, Preceptor Pro. If you're looking to enhance your precepting skills and advance your professional development, this course is for you.
To enroll in Preceptor Pro: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/preceptor-pro
A comprehensive blog post on precepting: https://www.freshrn.com/becoming-an-awesome-nursing-preceptor/
For ALL of our professional development content: https://www.freshrn.com/professional-development/
Learn more about the FreshRN All-Access Pass here - https://courses.freshrn.com/p/membership
To see our latest course catalog (med-surg, ICU, precepting, charge nurse, ortho, cardiac, neuro courses, and more), click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/
Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside, and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at: https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up/
Here is an affiliate link to Beth’s latest book, First-Year Nurse: Advice on Working with Doctors, Prioritizing Care, and Time Management: https://amzn.to/3JfDeAt
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Music credit: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard
Previously, Kati had a series of episodes on nursing communication. This mega dose combines all episodes into one for easy listening! The topics include:
These episodes were originally recorded in 2021 and are still very relevant for today’s new nurse.
For ALL of our new nurse content:https://www.freshrn.com/new-grad-nursing/
For a free mini-course on report tips for new nurses (including my fave report sheet), click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/med-surg-report-basics
To learn more about our comprehensive med-surg crash course, Med-Surg Mindset, click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/med-surg-mindset
For my free cardiac assessment checklist, click here: https://bit.ly/4aV6RTO
For my most-used medical abbreviations, click here: https://bit.ly/44mnTri
Learn more about the FreshRN All-Access Pass here - https://courses.freshrn.com/p/membership
To see our latest course catalog (med-surg, ICU, precepting, charge nurse, ortho, cardiac, neuro courses and more), click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/
Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside, and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at: https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up/
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Music credit: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard
In this episode, we are re-sharing our most popular neuro episodes from the archive in one massive episode. Kati Kleber, Elizabeth Mills, and Melissa Stafford (all experienced neuro ICU nurses) discuss: * When to worry about your neuro patient * The most common disease processes for acutely ill neuro patients * Common neuro meds * Frequent diagnostics * How neuro patients are monitored * Common neuro surgeries
These episodes were originally recorded in 2018, but the information is still incredibly relevant today for neuro nurses. This content is for informational purposes only; best practices may have changed. For ALL of our neuro nursing content: https://www.freshrn.com/neuro-nursing/ For our free mini-course on conscious neuro assessments, click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/neuro-assessments-mini-course To learn more about our comprehensive neuro prep course, Neuro Wise: A Crash Course For New Neuro Nurses, click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/neuro-wise Learn more about the FreshRN All-Access Pass here - https://courses.freshrn.com/p/membership To see our latest course catalog (med-surg, ICU, precepting, charge nurse, ortho, cardiac, neuro courses, and more), click here: https://courses.freshrn.com/ Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside, and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at: https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up/ Connect With Me Online! * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshRN * Twitter: https://twitter.com/Kati_Kleber * Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Fresh_RN/ * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kati_kleber/ * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@freshrn
Music credit: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard
Almost two-thirds of nurses (62%) experience burnout in the U.S. And it’s especially common among younger nurses. In this episode, Kati interviews Dr. Kate King, an associate professor in the clinical psychology doctoral program at William James College, and they discuss:
Sign-up for the FreshRN newsletter: https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up/
Watch the video interview on Kati's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/katikleber
Maybe you've heard the term "clinical nurse specialist" or "CNS" before but are not exactly sure how that differs from a nurse practitioner or nurse educator. In this episode, Kati interviews Dr. Mitzi Saunders, PhD, APRN, ACNS-BC, the President of the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists, and they discuss:
For the complete guide on how to become a CNS, click here: https://www.freshrn.com/how-to-become-a-cns
Sign-up for the FreshRN newsletter: https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up/
Watch the video interview on Kati's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/katikleber
In today’s episode, we chat with Sheri Walsh, MSN RN, a highly experienced nurse manager of a cardiac progressive unit that has over 100 staff members. We pull back the veil between employee and manager and discuss things like:
And more!
Links to things mentioned in the episode:
In this episode, Brittney Wilson role plays as a new grad RN and asks me the most common questions I get via email and social media from new nurses all over the country.
Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at freshrn.com
We have a full library of courses to support new nurses, including our new All-Access Pass! Check it out at courses.freshrn.com.
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Music credit: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard
In this episode, we dig into practical tips for functioning in a high-pressure environment, like the hospital, if you already deal with anxiety. We discuss:
To check out the full guide, click here: https://www.freshrn.com/for-the-anxious-nurse/
To learn more about the FreshRN All-Access Pass - https://courses.freshrn.com/p/membership
All of our blog posts - https://www.freshrn.com/blog/
Sign-up for the FreshRN email list – https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up/
In this episode of the FreshRN Podcast, Kati interviews Morgan Melancon MSN, RN, CCRN-K and Annabeth Davis, MSN, RN, NPD-BC. It's Part II of our two-part interview.
Morgan is the director of Nursing Education and Professional Development at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, and Annabeth is the manager of Transition to Practice within the department of Nursing Education of the same organization.
We discuss:
Show notes are located here: https://www.freshrn.com/st-judes-oncology/
If you're interested in learning more about St. Jude's nurse residency program, click here: https://www.stjude.org/jobs/hospital/clinical-careers/nursing/new-nurse-graduates.html
Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at: https://www.freshrn.com/
Connect With Me Online!
In this episode, Kati Interviews Morgan Melancon MSN, RN, CCRN-K and Annabeth Davis, MSN, RN, NPD-BC.
Morgan is the director of Nursing Education and Professional Development at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, and Annabeth is the manager of Transition to Practice within the department of Nursing Education of the same organization.
We discuss specific details of their unique nurse residency program like:
Even if you are not in this residency program, it's helpful to hear how different ones are organized which can empower you to do higher quality research into transition to practice programs at different hospitals.
Shownotes are located here: https://www.freshrn.com/st-judes-residency/
My at-home self-paced residency program: https://courses.freshrn.com/p/new-nurse-masterclass
If you're interested in learning more about St. Jude's nurse residency program, click here: https://www.stjude.org/jobs/hospital/clinical-careers/nursing/new-nurse-graduates.html
Join Brittney Wilson, BSN RN, founder of as she interviews Kati about where FreshRN started, why she created it and is so passionate about helping new nurses, and where she sees the brand going over the next 10 years. Right now, all of Kati's courses are 30% off to celebrate her 10-year brand-iversary! Head to and use promo code 10YEARS to get 30% off of your purchase. The sale is from April 23-29, 2023. Current courses available include: Nursing School Clinical Prep, Hired, Ortho STRONG, Neuro Wise, Cardiac Confidence, Breakthrough ICU, Med-Surg Mindset, and the New Nurse Master Class. Bundles are also available for additional savings. To see photos from the last decade and more details behind FreshRN milestones, head to
In this episode, I interview Sarah Lorenzini from the Rapid Response RN Podcast about delirium. We discuss a powerful experience Sarah had with delirium in the ICU, common mistakes new nurses make regarding delirium, and tidbits about new nurses working with RRT nurses. This episode is part of a Nurse Podcrawl focused on the topic of delirium. Head to to check out all of the other amazing podcasts too. The FreshRN 10 Year Anniversary Sale is coming soon! From April 23-29, 2023 all FreshRN courses will be 30% off. We currently have crash courses in cardiac, neuro, ICU, med-surg, and ortho, as well as professional development courses in precepting, charge nurse, and critical thinking. And don't forget about our largest course, the FreshRN New Nurse Master Class. Head to to check it out. Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at: Connect With Me Online! Facebook: Twitter: Pinterest: Instagram: TikTok:
If you're a nurse working in a hospital who cares for intubated and sedated patients (ICU nurses!) or on units in which your patients were intubated and sedated (med-surg RNs, I'm talking to you!) you're going to want to watch this episode. We dig into some mind-blowing and humbling facts about delirium in the ICU, and how we might actually be making things worse. "Sedation is NOT sleep. Propofol and benzodiazepines disrupt brain activity and PREVENTS REM cycle. We are causing lethal and inhumane sleep deprivation." For the full blog post with references, click here: To check out the details of the upcoming delirium podcrawl, click here: To see our latest course catalog (med-surg, ICU, precepting, charge nurse, ortho, cardiac, neuro courses and more), click here: Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at: Connect With Me Online! Facebook: Twitter: Pinterest: Instagram: TikTok:
In this mini episode, I discuss how to answer the common "what are your weaknesses?" interview question with confidence and without compromising credibility - all while coming off authentic and honest. To check out my full nurse resume and interview course, click here: Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at: Click here for my podcast for students and new nurses: Connect With Me Online! Facebook: Twitter: Pinterest: Instagram: TikTok:
On Dec 5, 2022, two LPNs in South Carolina were arrested after dressing changes were not performed on two vulnerable adults from Sept. 9-11, 2022 resulting in worsening of their health. In this video, I SBAR the situation, why it may have led to criminal charges, and go over important considerations for nurses. Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at: https://www.freshrn.com/ Blog: Courses [free and paid]:
[MINI-EPISODE] When a patient gets admitted to the hospital, we ask routine questions to assess risk for self-harm. But... what should you say when they say yes? I asked my husband (professional counselor, worked in mental health for 10+ years) for some talking points! My free ebook called 10 Mistakes Nursing Students Make (and how to avoid them): Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at:
In this episode, Kati covers how to plan your time to successfully pass the NCLEX. She starts by outlining what to do during your last semester, laying the post-graduation groundwork, and how to practically structure your study time. This episode was sponsored by TrueLearn. Go to and use promo code FRESHRN for 20%. To sign-up for Mission Accomplished: A Guide to Conquiring Your Final Year of Nursing School, click here: To take out all of the guess work and land your first real bedside nurse job, click here: My article on the Best NCLEX Reviews for 2023:
Four labor and delivery nurses were recently terminated over one TikTok video. In this episode, Kati outlines what happened, the response, and her thoughts. To sign-up for the FreshRN email list, head to . To learn more about our non-Facebook online community for nurses, head to .
Get ready, people! The NCLEX is being updated in 2023! In this episode, Kati outlines the specific changes to scoring and new question formats, as well as answers common questions students tend to have regarding the NCLEX in general. This episode was sponsored by TrueLearn. Head to and use promo code FRESHRN for 20% off. If the whole concept of applying for the NCLEX and to your state board of nursing is confusing, we go over that process in detail in this free mini-course:
What are the major differences between the ER and the floor? In this episode, Kati covers how these two units differ in responsibilities, flow of the shift, patient population, and how to know which one would be the best fit for you. This episode is sponsored by TrueLearn. Head to https://www.trueLearn.com and use promo code FRESHRN for 20%. For show notes, head to . Music: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard.
Has your clinical instructor or the primary nurse of your patient in clinical been cold or even rude to you? In this episode, Kati explores a few reasons behind it plus tips on how to deal with it. This episode is sponsored by Picmonic. Head to Picmonic.com and use promo code FRESHRN for 20% off. Music: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard.
Maureen has experience in the ICU, PACU, and as a nurse educator. She is also the owner of straightanursingstudent.com.
In this episode, Kati discusses her tips to optimize your study time specifically for nursing school courses. This episode is sponsored by TrueLearn. Head to TrueLearn.com and use promo code FRESHRN for 20% off. Music: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard.
In this episode, Kati quickly covers why frontloading quick wins into your orientation process are powerful motivators and can change the game for your development long-term. Our latest course release, Cardiac Confidence, is the ultimate resource to help you get quick win after quick win when working with cardiac patients. It's 40% off now through Friday, Sept. 9, 2022. To learn more and secure your savings, click here: Music: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard
Another semsester is upon us! In this episode, Kati talks through 6 tips to passing nursing school exams. Show notes: https://www.freshrn.com/ To learn more about Picmonic: and use promo code FRESHRN for 20% Thank you to Picmonic for sponsoring this episode! Music: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard
Kati updates listeners on the new schedule for the FreshRN Podcast for the forseeable future. To connect with Kati on YouTube, click here: To find Kati on TikTok, click here: To stay up-to-date on all-things FreshRN and sign-up for Kati's email list, click here: To sign-up for a coaching session, click here:
Get ready to learn about what it’s like to be a military nurse! In this episode, Julie shares with us what it’s like to work in the military as a nurse compared to what it’s like as a civilian nurse. She shares about her deployments and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Julie is a Jonas Philanthropies Scholar and currently in a Nursing Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program. To learn more about Jonas Philanthropies, click here:
Today, Kati interviews Tamar Rodney, an Assistant Professor at the John Hopkins School of Nursing, Psychiatric NP, researcher, and Jonas Philanthropies Scholar. Tamar shares with us her unique professional journey, the origins of her interest in mental and why she loves it so much, as well as thoughts about the future of our profession. To learn more about what it means to be a Jonas Philanthropies Scholar, click here:
Have you ever heard of a death doula? In this episode, Kati interviews Melanie Sheckles, who supports patients as they transition at the end of their lives. We discuss what a death doula does, how to become one, and the unique struggle that nurses have in facing death both from a personal and professional perspective. To learn more about Melanie, head to . You can find her on Instagram and Facebook @threshold.doula. To sign-up for her July 27th Death Jam virtual event, click here:
‘Fake it til you make it’ is a common term we use to encourage people who are learning in a really intimidating and challenging environment. In this episode, Kati discusses why she’s not a fan of that saying and other ways we can consciously lean into being a beginner. To learn more about becoming a FreshRN VIP, head to FreshRN.com/VIP. To view the most current course catalog, head to: FreshRN.com/courses.
RaDonda Vaught was recently sentenced in a court of law, and in this episode Kati dives into all that happened on that day, as well as details about her sentence. To learn more about becoming a FreshRN VIP, head to FreshRN.com/VIP. To find Kati on TikTok, go to: tiktok.com/@freshrn.
Today, I'm joined by Irnise Williams who is both a nurse and attorney. We discuss legal considerations for nurses, realistic liklihood of malpractice situations, and how we can take charge of our day-to-day lives at the bedside. To learn more about Irnise, click here: . Shownotes and more at FreshRN.com/podcast. Music: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard.
I have spent time researching and trying out digital stethoscopes, and in this episode will share with you if I think they're worth the price tag, who is best suited for one, and compare the top 3 digital scopes on the market today. Thanks to Eko Health for sponsoring this episode. To learn more about the 3M™ Littmann® CORE Digital Stethoscope, visit: . To enter their Nurse's Month sweepstakes, visit: . Music: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard. To read my full blog post on digital scopes, visit:
A FreshRN VIP asked a question Kati wanted to share with podcast listeners. The VIP currently works in an ICU as a CNA and is curious if it would be wise to work there as a new grad. Listen for Kati's perspective and some Q&A from her Instagram followers. To follow Kati on Instagram, (). To sign-up as a VIP, (). Music: "Keep My Cool" by Benj Heard.
Nurses Week 2022 has officially begun, and Kati shares her genuine thoughts of this annual week of "appreciation". Also, this past week the private nurse who worked with Amber Heard and Johnny Depp testified in the defemnation case. Kati shares her thoughts on her testimony. To sign up as a FreshRN VIP, head to courses.freshrn.com and it will be the first one on the list! Music is "Keep My Cool" by Benj Heard
Kati interviews a critical care nurse practitioner who helps transform traditional ICUs into "Awake and Walking ICUs". Kali Dayton defines what one is, the harms of deep sedation, benefits of increased mobility, and how deep sedation negatively impacts patients long after discharge with stories from survivors. You can find Kali's website at daytonicuconsulting.com. To sign-up for the FREE FreshRN 3-day email course, click here: Music is "Keep My Cool" by Benj Heard.
In this episode, Kati answers the following questions about malpractice insurance: Does it make me a target for a lawsuit? Won't my hospital's insurance cover me? Does it cover criminal charges? What's the difference between a claims-based policy vs. an occurrence-based policy? What do policies typically cover? Music: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard. For show notes, head to FreshRN.com/podcast
Being proactive, situational awareness, applying what you've learned in the past to future situations are crucial skills to develop early on as a newly licensed nurse. Together with Nurse Mo, a fellow nurse educator with a passion for new nurses, we discuss how you can really move the needle in development around these traits specifically. Nurse Mo's website: Nurse Mo's podcasts: Nurse Mo's courses for students:
This week, Kati interviews Lorie Brown, who is both a nurse and lawyer. She works to help nurses protect their licenses, and offers her legal perspective of this case. Music: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard. For full show notes, click here:
In this episode, Kati does a deep dive into case of RaDonda Vaught, who was recently convicted of criminal charges after a medical error. She discusses the event itself, the charges, legal considerations, and her personal perspective. Part 2 will be an interview with a nurse who is also a lawyer, which will drop next week. Show notes with references can be found at: https://www.freshrn.com/radonda-vaught-trial/
Code blues and RRT calls are very intimidating. In this episode, Kati interviews Will Kelly, MSN FNP-C who works as an inpatient hospitalist and regularly responds to codes and RRT calls. Will's website: Will's blog post: Will's EKG course (aff link): Music: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard
This week, I interviewed Nick McGowan, MSN RN CCRN. He is an expert critical care nurse with over 12 years of experience, and he’s here to discuss what he knows about the CCRN examination and certification for critical care nurses. We discuss how to study, what to look for in a review, how to know when you’re ready, and more. CCRN Academy (affiliate link): Use coupon code KATI10 for 10% off Free CCRN study plan download: Music: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard
It's a lot easier to sit back into routine and normalcy, and not try new things. Our brains interpret predictability as safety. But, whenever we get bored and want to change things up, we tend to experience a lot of mental resistance. In this episode, Kati discusses how to overcome that. To learn more about Charge Nurse Jump Start, click here: Email the team to submit episode requests for next season: Sign-up for FreshRN emails here:
Publication bias results from the selective publication of studies. In this episode, we discuss exploring publication bias and what it means.
Communicating with loved ones can be hard. These communication tips - your loved ones can help make these conversations more effective.
No one likes difficult conversations. These communication tips - difficult conversations can help make these conversations a little better.
Struggling with communication with your patients? These communication tips - Patients and their support systems can help.
The NYT recently published an article about the nursing shortage we're dealing with. I deconstruct the article and discuss my thoughts on what's going on with the massive lack of staffing we're seeing across the nation. NYT article: Show notes:
Struggling with communication with your team? These Communication Tips - Other Members of the Healthcare Team can help.
Struggling with communication among your team? Join Kati as she talks through communication tips that can help.
Join us as we discuss patient pathways for Whipple patients. Including what to expect, managing meds, discharge, and more.
Join us as we discuss patient pathways for OMFS patients. Including what to expect, managing meds, discharge, and more.
Join us as we discuss patient pathways for trauma patients. Including managing pain meds, working with PT and doctors.
Join Kati Kleber, MSN RN CCRN-K as she talks about how she got started in nursing and why she jumped from ICU to Med-Surg.
I get asked all the time, “Is Nursing Sustainable?”. Well, I go over this and answer that question in the newest episode of the Fresh RN podcast.
You are now clocking in with confidence, and you’re ready for the next challenge. But you enjoy your role, your team, and don’t want to change units or go back to school. In this episode, Kati, Amber, and Chelsea discuss some next steps you can take in your career now that you are no longer a newbie.
The first day of your new job is surely a mix of excitement and anxiety. It’s not uncommon to want to prepare for your first shift. This week Kati, Amber, and Chelsea discuss what you can and cannot prepare for, as well as how to handle the transition from nursing school to working full-time as a nurse
So you didn’t land your dream job right out of nursing school. That’s OK! Many new nurses don’t. This week Kati, Amber, and Chelsea talk about how to handle not getting that ideal job and how to become a stronger candidate for the next time you apply.
Your idea of a “high performing” new grad might not be the same as what your leadership team actually expects of a brand new nurse. In this episode, we hear from Amber and Chelsea, who lead a nurse residency program, about what qualities make a really great new grad nurse.
By the time we leave nursing school, most of us have a hierarchy of nursing roles ingrained in our minds-- that you should want to work your way “up” to the ICU and also go back to school to become a Nurse Practitioner. Well in this episode we are talking about why that hierarchy is garbage and some of the interesting and valuable nursing jobs that you may not have learned about in nursing school.
In this episode Kati, Amber, and Chelsea sit down to discuss nursing interviews. We cover some very common interview questions, discuss good and bad answers, and learn what your interviewer is really thinking.
What is nurse burnout? Why does it happen? How do we prevent it? In this episode, we talk all about nurse burnout, self-compassion, and things you can do to live your healthiest nurse life.
In this episode, we are discussing the rules of nursing that are not found in your textbooks. What’s cool, what’s not cool, and how to be an awesome teammate right out of nursing school.
The charge nurse is the boots-on-the-ground leader and a role model for a unit. It can be a stressful job, but it can also be fun and empowering as you gain knowledge and experience. In this episode, we chat about charge nurse responsibilities and some tips for new charge nurses.
We don’t stay new nurses forever. And some of our earliest Fresh RNs are now precepting newbies of their own! In this episode, we discuss when to start precepting, your role as a new nurse preceptor, and the challenges that come along with it.
At the very beginning of nursing school, we learn basic care of our patients: turning, intake and output, oral care, and so forth. Once we reach the bedside, we tend to become focused on the more complex tasks of nursing care, and those basics can fall by the wayside. In this episode we return to the basics, discussing their importance and how to incorporate them into our daily practice. Head to FreshRN.com/42 for the complete show notes of this episode.
Most hospitals have some form of Rapid Response Team that can be called when patients are becoming unstable to bring people and resources to the bedside quickly. In this episode, we discuss when to call a Rapid Response, what happens once one is called, and some of our own experiences calling or responding to them. Head to FreshRN.com/41 for the complete show notes of this episode.
Kati spent hours combing through the CDC and WHO recommendations and research articles discussing appropriate PPE for healthcare providers taking care of Coronavirus patients (COVID-19) and translated it into easy-to-understand terms for the bedside nurse. For links to all of her references, click .
Kati sits down with an experienced mental health professional to outline how nurses can manage fear while still being effective at work and mentally present at home in the midst of the Coronavirus Pandemic.
This episodes provides some coronavirus (COVID-19) background, and dives into why this is such a big deal for the nursing community, Kati's experience as a nurse on the Ebola Team back in 2015, and the challenge of constantly changing updates and fear when you still have to go into work each day.
Ok, you're off orientation, there's no preceptor checking behind you and you're on your own taking care of patients. How do you learn to trust yourself and your nursing judgment? In this episode, we chat about how we began to trust ourselves as we transitioned off of orientation and into our own nursing practice.
Taking care of someone who is unable to interact or make their own medical decisions can be complex. In this episode, we discuss some tips on talking to an unconscious patient and their loved ones, assessment tips, and as well as things to consider like health care power of attorney, consents, and more.
In this episode we talk all things urinary catheters... CAUTIs, tips, tricks, internal and external devices, and nursing considerations. Music: "Keep My Cool" by Benj Heard
Teamwork is one of those nursing buzzwords, but what does it practically look like during elbow-to-elbow nursing care? In this episode, we chat tips, what good teamwork feels and looks like, and how to be a good team member, and more. Music: "Keep My Cool" by Benj Heard
Join us as we discuss some tips for floating to another nursing unit. We cover how to start out your shift with success in a different environment, questions to ask, how to manage your nerves, and more. Music: "Keep My Cool" by Benj Heard
When the patient is now donating their organs, there are a lot of things that are now the responsibility of the nurse. In this episode, we discuss what it practically looks like to prepare a patient for organ procurement and some of the variations of the process, as well as our own experiences. Music: "Keep My Cool" by Benj Heard
We discuss the difference between coma and brain death, how brain death is determined, working with an organ procurement team, and general insights related to this sensitive topic.
So, how do you deal with the family members... like, normally? How do you meet their expectations and work together as a team? We discuss routine communication points with typical family members who are engaged and want to be part of a patient's care, and how you as a fresh RN can speak to them with confidence.
Arterial lines, ventilators, central lines galore! Together with Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Sean Dent, Melissa and Kati discuss some tips and tricks for dealing with typical ICU devices.
Arterial lines, ventilators, central lines galore! Together with Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Sean Dent, Melissa and Kati discuss some tips and tricks for dealing with typical ICU devices
Nursing conferences are fun, but can be pretty overwhelming. Melissa and Kati discuss some practical tips to get the most out the experience and investment.
In this episode, we interview Kathleen Puntillo, PhD RN FAAN who has written about and researched palliative care extensively, about what the nurse needs to know about palliative care and considerations for their patients.
Ever wonder about how the bedside nurses work with nursing leadership? We interview a current practicing nursing supervisor, chain of command, and discuss how the bedside nurse can leverage leadership in various patient situations.
Grab your nasal cannula and crank it up to 4L/min because in this episode, we interview Sean Dent who is an NP in acute care and discuss all things respiratory!
Welcome to Season 3 of the FreshRN Podcast. In this episode, Kati and Melissa interview Michael Ackerman DNS RN APRN-BC and Tom Ahrens, PhD RN FAAN on sepsis, priorities for the new nurse, and current sepsis treatment trends and recommendations.
Welcome to Season 3 of the FreshRN Podcast. In this episode, we interview Karen Kesten DNP APRN CCRN-K CCNS CNE, with the AACN about nursing certifications and why they are important to our profession, plus how to become certified.
In this episode, we interview about her top tips for cardiac tips for new nurses. Music: “Keep My Cool” by Benj Heard.
In this episode, we discuss the patients we will never forget. Identifying patient details were changed to protect patient privacy, however the meaning and lessons of the stories remain. Music: “Keep My Cool” by Benj Heard.
This episode discusses very practical tips for learning how to live the night shift life from the perspective of current and former night shift nurses. We discuss eating and sleeping tips, to how to manage your nursing care on the night shift, communicating with the healthcare team at night, and more. Music: “Keep My Cool” by Benj Heard.
In this episode, Elizabeth (former code-team nurse) takes the lead in discussing what’s important for new nurses to know about STEMI, stroke, and sepsis.
This episode discusses how to deal with a negative unit culture, the importance of emotional intelligence, self-inventory, how to respond to bullies, and confrontation. We talk empathy, sympathy, and more. Music: “Keep My Cool” by Benj Heard.
This episode covers the essential aspects of landing a job as a new nurse; resumes, applications, and interviews. All three of the hosts have experience interviewing new graduates and we give you our insider tips on the process. Music: “Keep My Cool” by Benj Heard.
Contrary to popular belief, nurses as not perfect. We make mistakes. In this episode, we discuss the mistakes we’ll never forget, as well as a few others. We also discuss some tips on how to deal with mistakes as a new nurse. Music: “Keep My Cool” by Benj Heard.
This episode covers the important difference between pain management and pain elimination, patient education, appropriate assessment, a proactive approach to pain management versus reactive, and some essential definitions. Music: “Keep My Cool” by Benj Heard.
This episode we discuss characteristics of the intensive care nurse, normal expectations, critical thinking, advocacy, communication, and more. We dive into 8 tips for success for newbies in the ICU! This episode is hosted by 3 CCRN nurses, which is a critical care specialty certification granted by the American Association of Critical Care Nurses. Music: “Keep My Cool” by Benj Heard.
This episode discusses some important meds (mannitol, hypertonic saline), different kinds of monitoring (ICP), diagnostics (CTA, MRI), and surgeries (craniotomies) that are pertinent to the neurocritical care patient. This episode is hosted by three neurocritical care nurses. Music: “Keep My Cool” by Benj Heard.
This episode discusses subdural and epidural hematomas, seizures, brain tumors, and diffuse axonal injury from the nursing perspective. This episode is hosted by three neuro ICU nurses. Music: "Keep My Cool" by Benj Heard.
This episode discusses the main questions newbies to neuro have: if neuro changes are subtle, when do I worry? We also discuss common neuro disease processes including ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, subarachnoid hemorrhage, intraventricular hemorrhage, and more. This episode is hosted by three neuro ICU nurses. Music: "Keep My Cool" by Benj Heard
This episode discusses the basic nursing considerations for report, including etiquette, LDA’s, meds, alarm management, what to expect when giving and receiving report from various levels of care, and more. Music: "Keep My Cool" by Benj Heard
This episode discusses why time management is essential for every nurse to consider as well as practical tips for the floor and critical care environment. Music: "Keep My Cool" by Benj Heard.
This episode discusses how to practically deal with patient death as it is happening right in front of your eyes, how to support the patient’s loved ones, practical considerations, as well as our own personal stories and tips on how to emotionally process this at home. Music by Taige McMahon.
This episode discusses a basic differentiation and considerations for CT’s, MRI’s, and x-rays, as well as collecting and interpreting lab results. Music: "Keep My Cool" by Benj Heard.
This episode discusses practical tips and tricks and personal experience dealing with frustrating, demeaning, demanding or rude patients and/or families. Music: "Keep My Cool" by Benj Heard.
This episode discusses practical tips and tricks for efficient, yet thorough documentation, as well as important things to consider that many do not realize. Music: "Keep My Cool" by Benj Heard.
This episode discusses the frequently challenging topic of delegation, specifically to nursing aides as well as colleagues. We’ll discuss tips and tricks, as well as the importance of building rapport. Music: "Keep My Cool" by Benj Heard.
This episode discusses some basics that are essential to understand when working with a medical team, including how they functions and their expectations from the nurse, rounding, common new grad mistakes when working with doctors, and our own personal stories. Music: "Keep My Cool" by Benj Heard.
This episode discusses how to structure your life outside of work so that you’re able to fully enjoy both your work life and your home life. Music: "Keep My Cool" by Benj Heard.
This episode discusses the warning signs of an impending code and when to get concerned. We also discuss rapid response situations and what to do in a code blue situation when you don’t know what to do. We also go over our first code blue situations. Music: "Keep My Cool" by Benj Heard.
This episode discusses the basic information the bedside nurse should know related to central lines or central venous catheters. This includes things you should never do, things you should always do, when to be concerned, and how to educate your patients. Music: "Keep My Cool" by Benj Heard.
This episode discusses structure of a typical nursing orientation, what to expect, tips for working with a preceptor, what to do when you and your preceptor don’t get along, and how to acclimate yourself to the culture of a nursing unit. Music: "Keep My Cool" by Benj Heard.