[metfan]

This site has helped me get through nursing school...now I need your help to get though the anxiety of starting a new job. I am so excited about starting this job. It is in a local LTC facility that I did some clinical time in. I get 6 weeks of orientation or more if needed. They are going to work around my school schedule ( I am presently going on for my RN). They pay is good and they are going to give me about 20 to 25 hours a week. My problem is my anxiety. On paper I look great. I was the top of my class, received a few academic awards, perfect attendance, competed with HOSA and was 5th in the nation. Unfortunately, this does not transfer to the workplace. I really struggled though clinicals. My therapist (yes, I see a therapist...please do not judge me ) thinks it is because I expect perfection from myself. This makes sense to me. Obviously, no student, or any nurse for that matter, is going to be perfect. My clinical teachers always said I was doing great. I was just so hard on myself and still am. I can't tell you how many times I almost quit. However, I met some wonderful friends and instructors who basically threatened me not to quit. " We know where you live" they would joke. I love nursing, I love geriatrics, I even like (not love) school. I guess my question is...what is orientation like? I hope they do not expect me to know everything. I mean, you do something a handful of times in school. This does not make me an expert. Help me relieve my anxiety. This site was such a blessing throughout school. Please help me now. No negative comments if at all possible...I can't handle anymore stress. Thank you all. Colleen

[Tweety]

Allow yourself to be human, one whom isn't perfact, one whom doesn't know everything there is about your new job, one whom will make mistakes. Put one foot in front of the other and walk through it.

It's normal to be nervious. Hang in there. Good luck!

[NC Girl 35]

Wow You are fortunate to be getting 6 weeks of orientation. I just started in LTC as a nurse. I was a CNA for 14 years before that. In the beginning its hard because everything is so new and different. Don't be afraid to ask questions and just get over the fact that its gonna take some time before you get it. I had a 3 day orientation and was put on the floor by myself on the first day. It was a bit overwhelming but I am a fast learner and it gets a little easier everyday. Some units are tougher than others. We have 25-30 patients and I work 3-11 which is a lot easier than 7-3pm. It will get better with time but don't give up. Also try to focus more on nursing school 20-25 hrs is a lot to work and go to school. I'm sure you will be fine. Keep us posted. Oh and congratulations on all your accomplishments.

[DivaNurse2007]

I feel Nervous as well. I got my first full time job at a LTC AM Shift with a load of 27-32 patients(which I think is alot), but im excited to be finally working. I was a CNA for 10 months and Im too finding difficult to switch my mind set as a Nurse. I have had a week of oreintation 3 of which I have been on the floor.It seems alot of work, especially the paperwork .The early med pass seems to go okay.But what is difficult thing is getting everything done with distractions in between.Any advice????

[steelcityrn]

Everyone is nervous about a new job, but at least you know this place and the staff. After you get your first week in, you will probably feel much better. Lots to learn, but your will see the routine. Best of luck.