Does it get better ?

2 minutes ago, Nurse SMS said:

I didn't realize how much better I was doing until the next round of new grads hit the floor. Suddenly how far I had come began to be clear to me.

Yes, it will get better. Very soon.

I'm glad that you were able to find a frame of reference that helps you see things in a new light. Try to keep focusing on the progress you have made, rather than just the things that are giving you trouble. At the end of each shift try to think of one thing that went particularly well before dwelling on anything that could have been improved. You can see now that you have come a long way and things will keep improving with time. But it can get overwhelming when you feel like many things need to be addressed. Break it down into small goals and you will find more success. Is it report that's a problem? Have a good sheet to keep information organized? Is it patient prioritization? Find someone with more experience and make a time when you can quickly touch base and discuss the workflow, even if it's after a situation to see what went well or could have been improved. Is it time management? Try to find a sheet/system that allows you to lay things out so you can mentally plan your shift. Things happen, and plans get off track, but a good plan is necessary. You're probably right where you should be based on your experience, and things will continue to improve. Good luck!

Moved to the First Year after Licensure forum

If it makes you feel any better, about 8 months in was the worst part for me (well, the second worst part - worst part was the first couple weeks off orientation). I felt like it had been awful for so long that it would never get better.

I started having small encouraging moments (I recognized a problem, I helped a coworker who was drowning, I got an IV in someone with no veins, I suggested an order to a doc and got it!).....then some horrible days....then some just-regular days...then more actually-OK days. I realized that although the workload remained high, I was getting stuff done and not running around in a panic anymore.

I didn't work in a hospital for a long time, just under two years. I felt reasonably capable of managing most work situations by then - not a seasoned pro, but capable of doing my job and asking questions when appropriate. I didn't feel sick and worried about going in, and I was able to enjoy my coworkers and patients as humans most of the time.

If you put in enough time to get past the panic feeling and become reasonably capable, you can always re-evaluate your options. I went on to public health and then school nursing, which I love, but it really was helpful to have some hospital experience to start with.

Right there with you. On my 5th week orientation as a new grad at my first job.....It's slowly getting better but I still have my moments. I'm still a little frazzled giving report, it's a little demotivating when the nurse you're giving report to pauses and says "You need to tell me that." and I'm like "....Oh."

If the unit has attainable goals, then yes, it will get better.