Any advice for a new RN?

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I'm graduating soon and starting to get nervous about the huge responsibility that I'm going to have as an RN. Any advice for a novice nurse on how to start out? I'll be working on a medical floor, as I feel this is a great place to get experience before I specialize. If you have good advice, I'd love to hear it! Thanks.

Specializes in Pediatrics Only.

The one peice of advice that I can give to any new grad:

If you arent sure, ask. Dont ever assume that something is ok to do just because you are scared to ask someone. Remember you have a persons life in your hands.

Also, documentation. If its not documented, then it was never done. Always make sure to do complete documentation and to double check and triple check medications before you sign them out and administer them to a patient.

Its always ok to say you dont know something. The new grads that I would worry about are the ones who think they know everything and dont ask questions. No question is stupid. Its better to be right and ask a 'dumb' question then it is to be wrong and not ask the question.

My last peice of advice?

RELAX! Remember to breathe, and remember that you'll have a preceptor to help you. Dont panic. You know this stuff. You just need to start practicing it. Jump in there! Ask other nurses to come get you if they need to start an IV so you can practice, or watch to feel more comfortable.

It takes about a year before you'll start to realize that yes, you are a nurse. And yes, you are comfortable in your own shoes. And yes, you do know what you are doing. That doesnt mean you wont still ask questions, but you'll be more comfortable with yourself and with your abilities as a nurse.

Thats my advice :)

-Meghan :nurse:

Specializes in Med/Surg, Ortho.

All of the above and also to add:

When your feeling overwhelmed (we all get that way), dont hesitate to ask for help. Remember take one thing at a time, you will get to everything eventually. Sooner or later you will learn to do several things at once but for now,, one at a time. And,, even the longest day in the world does end, the clock doesnt stop.

Thanks to both of you for responding! That is advice that I will definitely use.

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