Starting first RN job soon and I am terrified.

Nurses New Nurse

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Starting first RN job soon and I am terrified. I feel as if my school did not give me very much clinical time. I never had a preceptorship. I just had the required clinical hours. I haven't even stepped foot in a hospital in 8 months. I was told I would receive 4 weeks of orientation. Is that really enough time??? I am afraid the other nurses will think I am stupid. Any words of encouragement would help. Thanks.

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Specializes in LTC Rehab Med/Surg.

We've all been where you are. You're not alone.

Good luck with your first nursing job.

The fear/terror becomes less and less as you gain experience and confidence.

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I know how you feel, I'm a new grad and was lucky to get a job after graduation. Most places will orientate you for 3 months but others are usually 6 weeks. My hospital was 6 weeks and it's scary as a new RN to carry the team of 5 patients on your own. What helped me was the nurses on the floor, having a helpful staff helps alot.

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Good luck! 4 weeks isn't terribly long, but I've heard of worse.

I'll be real, nursing can be, more like just "is", a bumpy ride. In the beginning it can be really really tough and just plain daunting, but it gets better.

Congrats on finding a job too! :D

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Specializes in LTC, Med-Surg,administration.

Good luck to you. Just a suggestion, carry a small notebook, write down diagnosis, labs that you're unsure of and when you get home look them up while they are fresh to you. I think it was the best way to learn. Ask questions, but not in front of patients, it might put your preceptor on the spot. Take a deep breathe, a lot. Welcome to nursing!!!!:nurse:

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Specializes in Med/Surg, LTACH, LTC, Home Health.

Don't be afraid. Now is when you actually learn how to be a nurse. You will be more than ok. Congrats on the job!

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