Does it get eaiser????!!!

[BB06]

I just recently got hired at a near by hospital from where I live. I have been orienting for almost a month now and I find nursing to be VERY overwhelming. There are so many procedures to learn, so many protocols to know, knowing what to do with high and low lab results, and the lists goes on and on...I feel like I have no idea how to prioritized myself and that I am always behind on charting. I feel like I am not learning quick enough to be on my own. Granted, I have until December but I am scared I won't be able to go on my own. I am not saying I want to quit but I am asking for those of you that have been through orientation months, how was it for you guys? What did you do to make things easier? Does it get more simple as time passes? PLEASE HELP! Thanks!

[Student2Registered]

Yes I do believe it gets easier. I have begun to have more "good" days than I have had "bad" days but the bad days still come pretty consistently. It is all so overwhelming. I've actually explained it to family as being expected to move mountains three at a time in a unbelievable shot amount of time.

A "senior" nurse said to me on my last shift "Are things getting any easier? It sure is a bumpy ride being new to nursing." It felt so good to hear that from someone who has so much experience.

We will get through this I suppose. I keep telling myself that some day I will be the senior nurse giving that advice to a new grad - until then its gonna be bumpy.

[SummerGarden, BSN, MSN, RN]

yes, it gets easier. similar to other professions/jobs that have a high learning curve, at some point you will know a great deal that will make that learning curve smaller. in the meantime, the only way to get better is to keep showing up to work! in addition, figure out what resources on the floors will help you answer your questions (other staff members, protocols, books, training, etc). also, during your off days (or when you have time), think about your shifts and what you wish was on your brainsheet. then make a brainsheet to help you get through your shifts. as time goes on your brainsheet will be your best assitant. it will cut down on your disorganized thinking as well as improve your time management! gl!