Advice please.

[maximaxi]

I need some advice.Please help.

Im new RN and also newly off orientation at the end of my second week. I feel sooooooooo overwhelmed. I feel like the teams I have are so heavy.Sometimes I feel the team I have is just so overwhelming.Do I have the experience to handle this?Sometimes I just feel like crying.I hate to sound like such a baby.I wonder if when making the assignment the fact that im new should count for anything. Lunch/break what is that.. I have no time.I feel like im just watching the clock to get out of there.

So from anyone with experience-when you have a heavy team how do you try to stay organized without loosing your mind.Sometimes when the patients are soooooooo sick it freaks me out.. I had a long week and had to vent.

[GingerSue]

make sure that you have your break and your lunch - that is supposed be there for you

how heavy are the teams?

Did your clinical experiences during your education prepare you for your work experience? (in our nursing education 30 years ago we had 2 or 3 days/week while we had our classes the other days, and a final month completely on the unit - did you have anything like this to prepare you?)

You're only at the end of your second week - learning a new unit and new people takes time

[spiceyqueen]

depending on how the ward runs, and how the staff are, never be afraid to ask for help if you need. take a break, because in my experience, if you dont really take a break, you get flustered and that doesnt really mean you will get more work done.

break down your tasks and prioritise, speak to the in charge if you feel you are lagging. Hey If its any consolation, you dont sound like a baby.I have been in your shoes!!it takes a while to get your feet in a new place/new role. take it easy on yourself too!!!

And remember YOU come first

[purplemania, BSN, RN]

Please give yourself time. Many new grads are overwhelmed at first. Ask for help when you need it, don't try to be a martyr or think you are SUPPOSED to know it all. You aren't. I nearly quit 100 times that first year. It does get better. Ask your Educator for help if needed. Ask other nurses about ways to prioritize and manage time. Once you get a "system" you will feel more in control. Good luck.

[CHATSDALE]

school can't teach you everything, you will get things together do't be tough on yourself