FreshRN

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: What nursing school and clinicals are really like from a student's perspective. How working as a CNA prepares you for bedside nursing. What it's like to work as a nurse extern in a Medical ICU (MICU) while still in school. 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

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  Free Nursing Resources

[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. Don't forget - the Black Friday sale is going on NOW! Save 40% on our All-Access Pass (lowest price of the year) now through Cyber Monday.  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.

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  

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! 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

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: Our first codes and lessons we learned Advice for students in clinical Tips for rapid response situations and calls How to be calm and collected in the face of controlled chaos 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! 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  

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: The types of patients you'll see in a CVICU Her favorite and least favorite types of patients A walkthrough of the patient pathway of a typical CABG patient New grad vs. experienced nurse orientation experience into CVICU Unexpected challenges of CVICU RNs The advice she'd give her younger self 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/  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  

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: Arterial lines Different options for monitoring fluid status Cooling devices CRRT Hemodialysis catheters Impellas and aortic balloon pumps Internal pacing Proning devices  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/  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  

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: What new ortho nurses struggle with most Common surgeries acute care patients undergo Why ortho nursing is so great How to impress providers Examples of cringe-worthy moments General tips and encouragement for new ortho nurses 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! 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  

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: Tell me about a mistake you have made. What are you most excited about, and what are you looking forward to most? Tell me about a time you went above and beyond. Tell me about a time you received feedback that was hard to hear. 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/  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  

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: What nursing report is for an acute care nurse Unspoken nursing report etiquette Basics of what should be communicated during a normal full hand-off report 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/  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  

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: How to give feedback in a constructive manner Tips for nurses going into the precepting role who are not yet confident in their own skills How to support nurses through reality shock Coping with preceptees who take correction personally How to handle preceptees who question absolutely everything And so much more! 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  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  

Previously, Kati had a series of episodes on nursing communication. This mega dose combines all episodes into one for easy listening! The topics include: How to talk to your nursing colleagues, CNAs, and medical unit receptionists and deal with things like how to navigate when your urgency level changes or challenges in working together Learning what everyone on the healthcare team actually wants to know when they want an update (PT, OT, ST, Case Management, Social Work, medical team, and more) Cool vs. not cool ways to handle things  Simple things you can do and say to look and feel more comfortable as the patient's nurse Tips on delivering tough news and how to be in those big moments while holding it together and being a strong but caring presence for your patient How to engage with your own family and loved ones who might not understand all that you go through at a normal day of work 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/  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  

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: signs of burnout, and whether this is destined to happen to every nurse the importance of being proactive balancing the desire to be perfect with the very real seriousness of mistakes redefining ‘self-care' tips and encouragement from Dr. King 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: The definition of a CNS and how the CNS supports the bedside nurse CNS vs. NP A typical day in the life of a CNS The educational pathway to CNS Tips and encouragement from Mitzi 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: Reasonable and unreasonable things to discuss with your manager Practical tips for new nurses on giving and receiving feedback in a tactful way How to handle the “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” common interview question  And more! Links to things mentioned in the episode: Hired. – https://courses.freshrn.com/p/hired Preceptor Pro – https://courses.freshrn.com/p/preceptor-pro FreshRN All-Access Pass - https://courses.freshrn.com/p/membership FreshRN Blog - https://www.freshrn.com/blog/ Sign-up for the FreshRN email list – https://www.freshrn.com/email-sign-up/  The FreshRN Community (current students only) - https://freshrn9.community.teachable.com Got a question for Sheri? We hope to have her back on the podcast! Email us at contact@freshrn.com with yours.

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: Nervousness vs. anxiety How to lower your baseline level of anxiety Routines to outsmart your brain Responding to anxiety flares or freezes at work   When to seek professional help 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, 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.  Connect With Me Online! Facebook: facebook.com/FreshRN Twitter: twitter.com/Kati_Kleber Pinterest: pinterest.com/Fresh_RN/ Instagram: instagram.com/kati_kleber/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@freshrn Music credit: Keep My Cool by Benj Heard

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: Special training required to give chemotherapy What people love about working oncology and what's particularly challenging End of life care Specific common nursing responsibilities unique to oncology 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! 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, 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: Why they needed to revitalize program How it is structured Special educational considerations for newly licensed nurses 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 listen to 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:  Prep for nursing job interview questions with this PDF download list:  Get a free 3-pack of nurse resume templates: Get weekly tips, encouragement, stories from the bedside and more - just for nursing students and new nurses at:  Music: "Keep My Cool" by Benj Heard 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, and researcher. 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 Tamar, 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:  

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:

‘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.

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:

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.  

A FreshRN VIP asked a question Kati wanted to share with podcast listeners. The VIP currently works in an ICU as a CNA, and 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.