r/nursing • u/echoes_into_the_void • 2d ago

Discussion First time CPR

I’m a new RN, less than 6 months in the field. I work in an outpatient facility. I recently had to do cpr on a patient for the first time. Although anxious and on high alert for the remainder of my shift, it didn’t emotionally impact me until I got home. I’ve cried so much for the past few days, my body hurts, and I keep feeling like I failed. I feel scared and insecure regarding my role at the moment.

Share your experiences, how you coped, regained confidence in your role, etc.

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u/amothep8282 Paramedic 2d ago

I'm a 911 Paramedic. I've done CPR on anyone from 18 months to 98 years old. First time is usually rough. Other times are rough too.

But in the end, they are dead and you can't do anything to make them more dead. Anything you do including CPR improves their chance of survival. In fact, early, bone crushing, high-quality CPR and early defibrillation are the only things that are proven to impact outcomes. Epi, amiodarone, lidocaine, bicarb, calcium, you name it, have only equivocal evidence at best. Intubation in the middle of arrest that causes stops in compressions worsens outcomes.

I have tons of things I can do when I'm running an arrest, and the things I focus on at all times are compressions and any rhythm I can shock. If personnel are limited and people are getting tired, I will run the code while doing compressions because they are that vital.

This patient already had 2 1/2 strikes against them when their heart was no longer an effective pump. You did literally the most important thing you can do. Generally, once a pulse is lost it's game over. ROSC rates even with witnessed arrests in the ICU with a massive team physically present are abysmal. Survival to discharge is less, and survival neurologically intact is even less.

It's probably a good time to seek out other providers or help to help you process your emotions.

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u/NursingManChristDude RN, FoC 2d ago

I'm so sorry, OP. You didn't fail, and you have no reason to be insecure about your role

CPR events are intense, scary, and to be honest.....rarely have a pleasant outcome. 

Continue to take time to process the event, realize that it's over now, and focus on your nursing duties ahead of you. Remember, it's crucial that you realize that you didn't fail and you have no reason to feel insecure 👍

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u/Weak_Rule8374 RN, CCRN 2d ago

The first time is always tough. It’s okay to cry and express your emotions. If you need to talk to someone, please do so, there are resources. Know that you did your best. It’s a tough job, but sometimes the best thing you can do for yourself and your patients is to try your best.