How to get back basic nursing skills and knowledge?

[dsingson5]

Hi guys,

I've been recently hired as an RN Med/Surg Intern for an observation unit. It's been a long time since I've had my clinicals. I graduated in 2011 and passed the nclex last year. I've forgotten most of my studies and skills. Although, I'm very excited to finally work in my dream job (as an RN! :)!) and I'd like to feel very confident but I'm afraid that I'm gonna be let go on my first few weeks. What can I do guys? What could I study or practice? I have 1 month before my life starts!

[dsingson5]

Thank you very much Flatlander, OCNRN63, and Kooky Korky! I'm going to follow all of the things you said! It doesn't hurt to over prepare is my motto. If I could over prepare that is.

To be honest, I think I've been psyching out myself too much but when I hear all those new grad RN stories, it's hard to relax. I'll try to calm myself down one of these days :)

Yes, I'm really thankful for the internship. I still can't believe that I got picked for it. Amazing! I'm thankful for everyone that helped me and Allnurses especially. I don't think I'd pass the NCLEX without Allnurses and would have not passed my resume to the right hospital too. We truly are an amazing group of people that gives so much care that you care see it here and I can't say that enough!

[VANurse2010]

Don't worry so much about tasky stuff - that's not nursing anyway. Most of what students consider skills - Foleys, angiocaths, etc. - aren't skills at all; they're tasks that people do at home all the time. Review your assessments and pathophysiology and watch your preceptor closely. Assessment is truly what's important.

[Flatlander]

Don't worry so much about tasky stuff - that's not nursing anyway. Most of what students consider skills - Foleys, angiocaths, etc. - aren't skills at all; they're tasks that people do at home all the time. Review your assessments and pathophysiology and watch your preceptor closely. Assessment is truly what's important.

Not skills? They still have to be done accurately with attention to risks and infections. Even if done at home by the patient, the nurse will teach the correct techniques. A new grad who shows good knowledge of these basics demonstrates basic competency. Mistakes and fumbling on these basics will reflect poorly. I agree assessment and pathophys are necessary for critical thinking.

Please share what you would consider nursing skills; or is the term itself unnecessary? Thanks.