Charge nurse after 1 month off orientation?

[xdelitezx]

My job wants me to become charge nurse after only 1 month & 2 weeks off orientation! I feel I am not ready/comfortable yet. I need opinions on how to handle this.

So I am a new grad RN (with LPN experience) working nights on a 28 bed inpatient Psych unit in a major hospital. I was told by a charge nurse/coworker (who is leaving for a another postion) that she recommended me to the supervisor to become a charge nurse. Ive ONLY been off orientation for 1 month & 2 weeks. Im having high anxiety about this because I feel that I am still new & learning my job & still dont know a lot in the 6weeks ive been off orientation. One friend told me to be a self advocate & tell them I am not comfortable, while another friend says that it may make me look bad that I am "not stepping up to the plate" & it will tarnish my reputation. Would this make me look bad if I tell them that I am still new and not comfortable with taking on role of charge nurse this soon? Please help!

[masu0506]

Better tell them how you feel. If you were recommended by a charge nurse it could be mean that she saw the potential in you. You tell your supervisor about how you feel and that you are not comfortable to accept an overwhelming responsibilities. (I hope) She could extend your training or make themselves available to help you on the floor or assist you. Don't turn your back easily because this maybe a good opportunity for you. Talk to them first. :-)

[dishes, BSN, RN]

The collegue who recommended you, saw you have leadership potential, you can tell your boss that while you appreciate the offer, you're not ready yet, and you would really appreciate it, if she would consider you again at some point in the future.

[CapeCodMermaid, RN]

I had an 8 hour orientation when I worked at the hospital on a med-surg floor. My first night on the floor, I was told I was in charge. But, I protested, I'm a new grad. Yes, they replied, but your the initials after your name are RN. I was too new to say no so I did it. No one died...all was fine. If you were an LPN for a while, you'll do fine.

[mazy]

Have they followed up with you on this recommendation? It's possible that they might take the recommendation under consideration and look for someone more experienced. Have you talked to your colleague and expressed your concerns?

It is true, as CapeCod Mermaid said, if you have LPN experience you might be more prepared than you think. Or you might express your concerns to management if they offer you the position and work out a way to get more support while you get used to the job.