Confidence problem?

Nurses Career Support

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I am pursuing employment after being off for almost 2 years (again) after this baby. I have an interview Tuesday in fact. After being so very excited all weekend, I suddenly have that creeping doubt -what am I getting myself into! :uhoh21: I am really trying to think of the reality of it all- not my fantasy about all of the good and missed parts of working. The grim reality of being very short staffed, the cliques, the shift fighting, the typical stuff. And mostly, trying to choose what the heck I want to do .... what department. This particular hospital (there isn't many to chose from) has many floors with 10+ FT positions down. I am going to be casual, no matter where I go. I have so many questions for my interview. What I am #1 scared of is that incompetent feeling, and trying to "prove myself". I am usually pretty confident, but I feel like maybe I should go back to my little old rural hospital that I wasted 10 years in, , but that is safe because I know what to expect instead of this new place. ACK.

OR maybe it is partly because the other nurses will find out I have been out of school for 10 years -- should be very seasoned-- BUT I went casual after baby #1, then FT for a bit, then PT then casual, then quit when preg with #2, then casual, then PT, then quit, then casual again, then had #3 (AND LAST) and then quit for good at that place. :rotfl: Anyhooo-- I don't really know, counting it up I may have about 5 years experience instead of 10. WHATEVER!! I am nervous and it seems so ridiculous since when I did work, I tried my best, knew what I had to or found out the answer from someone!

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Do you have any surgery centers nearby? I have a friend who works part-time, two days a week. Makes good money. Doesn't work holidays or weekends.

Do you have to go back to work now? I'm looking in the other direction and wishing I could stay home full time. I work part-time at a rural hospital - the only nursing job I've ever held (been a nurse 6 years now). I too have confidence problems due to knowing a little about alot.

I work OB, ER, and our acute beds which is the same as med-surg. Do some post-op, pre-op, and am the baby nurse during cesareans. Really wish I had some in-depth experience and if I had to choose which part to focus on it would be ER.

Some say rural nursing is great due to flexibility and that is true but for me it also means I question my abilities all the time.

steph

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Couldn't you explain to the HR dept or hiring manager that you've been away from the field for 2 years & would like a refresher? They may appreciate your honesty. You could ask for the same kind of orientation that "new grads" get, some kind of residency. The longer orientation would help you get back into the swing of things.

The fears you are facing are quite normal! In my opinion, you should move on to the more challenging hospital -- I bet you'll do great!

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There is really a unique situation in small rural hopsitals.

I too have confidence problems due to knowing a little about alot.

Well said! I know exactly what you mean. As far as working, I don't have to, but could really use the extra money-- which will seem like A LOT after not having it. We manage thankfully on one income, but I am so tight I squeak when I walk. I will be careful not to rely on any money I make for "the budget", a lesson I learned already.

I am going to just be honest and lay it on the line to the new place, what do I have to lose....

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Just hired a nurse who's been out of nursing for 18 years!! Prior to applying and coming on board, she took a nurse refresher course! I think a good dose of "fear and trembling" can help sharpen our wits/observation etc..... just don't let it overcome you!!

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Just hired a nurse who's been out of nursing for 18 years!! Prior to applying and coming on board, she took a nurse refresher course! I think a good dose of "fear and trembling" can help sharpen our wits/observation etc..... just don't let it overcome you!!

Agree. Give yourself a break. Being nervous before starting in a new place is normal for anyone. Who cares how long you've been out or what you've done between babies. You don't have to explain yourself to anyone.

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Mountain mama-

I think what you are experiencing is what we all go through when we are going through major change. The last time I changed jobs, I was tied up in knots. And for what? Truth is, on my floor anyway- we value the team spirit and professionalism of any new employees rather than their years of experience. I want some honesty and integrity above all else. Experience comes with time. So what if you are a little rusty? If you're half as good as you sound in your post (professional & considerate) then they will be thanking their lucky stars to have you join their team! Don't be shy about asking for some orientation if you need it. Good luck! I hope you love your new job! :balloons:

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