Advice please :)

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Hi all!

Recently I was asked to become the ANM at my new job. I've been an RN for 6+ years in critical care and the job is in med-surg. I don't know anything about the hospital, system, and/or the culture of the hospital so I'm a little hesitant. Anyone care to share any advice? Would you take the position?

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Specializes in Nurse Leader specializing in Labor & Delivery.

So you started in a job as a regular nurse, and then shortly after starting, they asked you to be an assistant nurse manager? I would be very hesitant.

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Thank you for your input. And yes that's right. I'm worried that the staff will not respect me because I'm an outsider coming in to lead them. I have no doubt in my leadership capabilities, but I feel as though I'm supposed to know everything and I'm going to hate when I dont know the answer to questions.

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How long have they been looking to fill that position?

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For about 3 weeks now

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Specializes in Hospice, corrections, psychiatry, rehab, LTC.
Thank you for your input. And yes that's right. I'm worried that the staff will not respect me because I'm an outsider coming in to lead them. I have no doubt in my leadership capabilities, but I feel as though I'm supposed to know everything and I'm going to hate when I dont know the answer to questions.

If your coworkers don't apply for the position, then they have no right to gripe, IMO. No new manager comes in knowing everything, and staff shouldn't expect you to. Knowing where to find answers about things you are unfamiliar with is valuable. After a while, you will know where to turn for answers when you don't have them.

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You are the best! Those were the words I needed to hear/see!! Thank you!!

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Specializes in ED, ICU, MS/MT, PCU, CM, House Sup, Frontline mgr.
Thank you for your input. And yes that's right. I'm worried that the staff will not respect me because I'm an outsider coming in to lead them. I have no doubt in my leadership capabilities, but I feel as though I'm supposed to know everything and I'm going to hate when I dont know the answer to questions.

Yes, the staff will be weary of you because you are an outsider! However, similar to being a staff RN, you will have to get to know them and develop a relationship with them (work with them) to gain respect. Also, unlike being a staff RN, it is your responsibility and not their responsibility to initiate the development of relationships.

Furthermore, to add to Ocra's comment, your staff is a resource, so them! This will also help them to see that you respect their skills and their knowledge as well as not being a knot-it-all. GL!

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