New NP Fatigue Syndrome

Practice management takes time.  I have been an NP for 29 years. Writing good notes now will make it easier when you see your patients back for follow up or next year.  I always review any scheduled patient's charts before my first patient of the day in order to anticipate their needs. But most important is the practice or visit template that you will develop for your various appointment types.  In the beginning I had this written down including a "template" for my dictation, now it is internalized.  But also important is to learn to Identify what must be done and what you don't need to do.  To learn to have your patient identify what is needed and what doesn't need to be done especially during thise "well patient" visits  And for you to say: we will need to address this issue at the follow up visit.  Sometimes you can not address every issue that your patient wants to address, but you can acknowledge their needs.

I have worked with electronic records and have found them helpful  But most important is to find a way to chart as the day goes on and not wait until the end of the day.  The notes you take while talking with the patient can help frame the dictation after the visit.  My patient feedback consistently indicates that I listen really well.  But I don't let the patient have complete control of the discussion.  I make sure that I ask the questions needed to complete my history and dictation while the patient is in the room.

Bridget,

You are not alone.  I share your misery.  I guess the old saying, "misery loves company" is true.

We (new NPs) should get together for a "top this story" getaway.  My sister-in-law has a magnificent home in Puerto Vallarta that she rents out.  I can get it for cheap during the off season.