Re: new to charge sooo scared!!
I went through the same exact scenario except I trained to charge at 8 months on my post-surgical step-down telemetry unit. We have 25 patients, so we go up to 6 RN's and 2 CNA's on nights. I was given 3 days of orientation (which weren't the greatest because of course they were crazy hectic nights!). I was then charge for over half my shifts for the next month or so. I felt the same way you did, how could I help others who have been a nurse longer than me. The answer is that there are certain types of people who are good at charge and certain types that aren't. A lot of the experienced nurses on my floor have no desire to be charge, and frankly would not be good at it. Even though it is a scary experience at first, it is the ultimate compliment that others think you have the ability to lead. Just remember that you are always going to be put in situations where you are uncomfortable, but that's how we learn. After a little while at charge, you are going to learn many resources to utilize in those kinds of situations. It will be a great thing and one you won't regret in your nursing career.
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