English as a second language Nurse, How did you guys overcome fear of bad grammar?

[Datu]

I'm always afraid making mistakes in my grammar. I can overcome the the verbal conversation but writing a long grammar scared me most. Right now I'm really scared on making chart because what if my charting sucks because of bad grammar??What if they fire me because of the wrong grammar???! Does anyone here have this kind of problem? What if someone critic your chart because of the wrong grammar what do you guys usually do? Thanks.

Oh BTW I'm really amazed on a foreign Nurses who can't even speak English very well still working at very well known Hospital like kaiser etc. Even though they can't speak English well their confidence is still there!! I really admire them I hope I have that kind of confidence..

[Fribblet]

Read this site a bit more. It will become obvious to you that many English-speaking nurses have no fear of bad grammar. They use and abuse their native language.

Having read your posts, I'd say you're doing great!

[BluegrassRN]

english is my second language as well. just keep your nursing notes short and clear. no need for using big words or making complex senteces. after all you're not required to write full essay for each patient :)

This is perfect advice, and I second it. Keep your sentences short and simple. Don't overchart. Ask a coworker if you think something sounds unclear.

Based on your post, you have nothing to worry about, however. You grammar and grasp of the English language is better than many native English speakers. You'll be fine.

[lxpatterson]

I guess it depends on where you are practicing. I know here in Toronto (Canada) many of the clinicians and patients are visible minorities; many also are first generation immigrants. As long as you can demonstrate competence, intelligence and sensitivity no one really notices the accent.

In fact, one of my fellow nursing students was a doc and cardiac resident from Iran, and when I have physiology or assessment question I go to him before I go ask a prof. He's a shy, but always willing to help, and I recognize that it's a real blessing for me to be able to work with a knowledgeable guy like that.

[regularRN]

Well, English is my first language, having been born and raised in England... but I have to comment that on relocation to the US I have encountered numerous grammar crimes, mainly perpetrated by "English-as-a-first-language-Americans" so I think you're doing a great job.

[Ayeloflo]

I normally don't correct people, so no offense intended, but actually "not your cup of tea" doesn't mean it's not your business, it means it's something you don't like, don't enjoy, or don't care for.

"My girlfriend loves scrap booking, and has invited me over for a party, but it's just not my cup of tea. How do I beg off without hurting her feelings?"

Thanks. The most important thing is that you get the idea I'm trying to convey so communication is successful.It's okay. I never told you that I was perfect? I can take correction. I like to learn more and to be a better person too