Be Tough or Wimp Out?

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I am not a new nurse, but I have only been in the field for about 4 years. I have recently moved to a new state. I have found a new job in a new hospital, working in a area that is new to me. I feel "out of my comfort zone" and very unsure of myself. Some of these tasks I have not performed in years. And unfortunately due to the nursing shortage, I do feel that once I am off orientation and on my own that I will be putting the patients at risk and my nursing license. I feel unsafe. I have only been working at this job for 3 weeks. Is this just all "new" nerves? Any suggestions?

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Talk to someone at the hospital about it. Your manager, someone in nursing education, anyone who has anything to do with the orientation. If you feel unsafe, it needs to be addressed ASAP. Good luck!

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Specializes in Neuroscience/Neuro-surgery/Med-Surgical/.
Talk to someone at the hospital about it. Your manager, someone in nursing education, anyone who has anything to do with the orientation. If you feel unsafe, it needs to be addressed ASAP. Good luck!

I concur! Request some additional time to work with a nurse educator or preceptor to work on those skills! Do not wait until the end of orientation to inform your manager that you are not ready....do it NOW!

Best of luck!

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Specializes in M/S, MICU, CVICU, SICU, ER, Trauma, NICU.

Don't pretend you know something if you don't. Practice SAFELY.

Good luck!

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Specializes in General surgical/ trauma/ agency nursing.

I wouldn't agree to do anything unless you feel competent. Speak to your managers about your concerns. Most importantly, document everything. good luck.

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