Any advice to the concerns I have as a new GN?

[1Jessie86]

Hello,

I just accepted a job as a new graduate nurse (GN) and start working in less that a couple of weeks. I a fresh out of nursing school with many concerns. My two main concerns are not effectively communicating with doctors and not providing the best answers/explanations to patients. Any words of advice? What were your concerns as a new nurse?

[Laicia]

What type of floor are you on?

[1Jessie86]

It's a medical surgical floor in a hospital.

[Been there,done that, ASN, RN]

First of all.... change your name, change that attitude. You are not lost , and never have been.

You are a talented professional.

You have the same concerns every nurse before you had. Now you need confidence.

Learn the SBAR format and know how to "close the loop" of communication.

Deep breaths.. you've got this.

[1Jessie86]

I will change the name. It's just a name and it was made before graduation.

[SierraBravo]

With respect to communicating with Physicians, if you have the time think about what you want to say before contacting them. Maybe "reheorifice" it in your head for a minute or two if you can. Physicians are people, just like you and me. I know it can be nerve wracking at first, but you'll get the hang of it once you have done it a couple of times. Speak with your preceptor, he/she may have additional ideas for you. Regarding communicating with patients, if you don't know something don't be afraid to say that you are not sure, but that you will find the answer for them. Know your resources including your preceptor, charge nurse, hospital policy/procedure manual, etc...

[Been there,done that, ASN, RN]

I will change the name. It's just a name and it was made before graduation.

You chose that name though. That speaks volumes about your self worth.

Looking forward to your new and improved handle:yes:

[firstinfamily, RN]

Congrats on graduating and mostly in finding a job, a lot of new grads are having difficulties getting into the hospitals. SBAR is a great tool and helps you organize your thoughts before you call the MD. Learning what is important to call the MD about will take time. Always, always ask questions, that does not mean you should not try to problem solve yourself, but when in doubt, ask. You are going to go through "Reality Shock" we all have been through this. Nursing is a very dynamic field, and it will take time for you to feel more comfortable. With that said, go with gusto, be enthusiastic, always willing to learn more. Learn your resources, even in other departments, like pharmacy etc. Learn how to correlate lab results with clinical symptoms, this will help you when you take your boards. Study for boards and the real experience in the field will help you prepare. Reach out to us whenever you want, we have been there. Hold your head up high, you have just accomplished a major step in your new career---getting your first job!!