Anxious/Stressed About New Job...Advice Needed!!

[ahlee, BSN, RN]

Hi! So I was able to land my dream job at a large teaching hospital in a Neuro ICU, which I am incredibly happy about, but I can't help but notice that I've been getting very anxious and stressed. This is my first "experienced" nursing job (I have about 1.5+ years of ICU experience) after leaving my new grad position in a combined ICU at a community hospital setting, and I-of course-expect there to be some growing pains and whatnot. I feel that a part of me is anxious mainly because I gave myself two months off in between to recharge after constantly taking care of covid patients (which did take a toll on my mental health). But does anyone have advice for me? I'm worried that I won't be good enough for this position. ? 

[JKL33]

The number one thing you can do is have a good, attentive attitude. Be engaged.

Stop the negative self-talk immediately. You have some useful experience so just proceed forward veering neither into self-doubt nor know-it-all territories.

Maintain "determined and engaged" body language: Make good eye contact with people, smile when you meet them, listen to what they're saying, stand up strait, walk with purpose, be kind and pleasant. Remember your pleases and thank yous. Don't try to win them with cloying friendliness but rather gain respect over time by being focused on excellent patient care. Neither over- nor understate your knowledge and experience. "I have some experience with that...but this is new to me..." Etc.

Everything's gonna be okay. But it is imperative that you believe it.

Best of luck ~ ?

[Been there,done that, ASN, RN]

Any job change is stressful. Doing it during these uncertain times makes it more stressful. The fact is . you are a successful ICU nurse,and you know how to take care of neuro patients.  Realize that you will only be improving those skills. 

You have stepped out of your comfort zone. New hospitals/ units are daunting. You will be learning the dynamics of the unit, the doctors, and co-workers. You don't have to do it all in one day. 

I left a position of five years, where I  had proven myself and was respected. I was scared that  I could not earn that respect again.  It took about three months for everyone to get to know me. I ended up being even more respected there. 

One day at a time. Best wishes and let us know how it's going.

 

 

 

 

[Mrs.D., BSN]

I don’t have much for advice with the anxiety, but maybe the stress response. Do you have a Fitbit? It may seem silly, but there’s an App on Fitbit (maybe others too) called “Relax”. When you play it, it vibrates at a normal breathing rate to encourage you to calm and focus. I found it very helpful during covid when I was stressed to the max—at home AND at work. Man that was a hard time. It’s so simple, but was so helpful. 

The PPs have good advice. Are you smart, a good teammate, a good learner, a good listener? Are you capable? Did they hire you knowing your experience? You’ll fit exactly as you are. Just do your best. You’re not expected to know everything. At my hospital, a 1.5 yr nurse new-to-us is very much still a new grad. Work hard and pay attention and you’ll be great. Good luck, and CONGRATS!

[ahlee, BSN, RN]

Thank you guys so much for the advice! Nice to know there's a very supportive community online ? My preceptors were impressed with me during orientation and I'm working on my own right now! I still get those pre-work jitters, but I'm constantly reminding myself that it's normal and I'll get the hang of things soon. 

And to answer your question, Mrs. D, yes! They knew I was coming in with 1.5 years experience.