Feeling discouraged about tasks

[CherrySyrup BSN RN CPN, BSN, RN]

Did really well in school, just graduated, passed my boards, and am starting my first job. When it comes to understanding medications, disease processes, etc I feel super confident. When it comes to nursing tasks like NGs, foleys, ostomy care, wound care, drain care, etc I feel like I have virtually no experience. My school focused so much on the science of nursing, but none of the hands on stuff. I'm afraid to look like a complete idiot when I start orientation and don't know what to do.

[chevyv, BSN, RN]

Of course you have virtually no experience. In school we get the basics and then once we land a job, we get the hands on procedures down. Just be upfront and go for it! I hate training nurses that act like they know what they're doing when they haven't a clue. It's way too dangerous. Be honest and let them know that you need the experience! Ask questions when you need to. Congrats on your new job!! Wishing you the best :)

[BrandonLPN, LPN]

Nobody will expect to know how to do most tasks as a brand new grad. No one will think you're stupid, don't worry.

You will soon discover that a few months of hands-on experience is worth WAY more than all your years in the classroom combined.

Oh, and PLEASE resist the urge to say "But that's not how we were taught to do it in school." your coworkers will appreciate it! :)

[CherrySyrup BSN RN CPN, BSN, RN]

Thank you for the responses, it definitely makes me feel better. I guess my concern is that I feel like I'm supposed to have learned this stuff and got it down, but I guess that's what orientation is for!

[KelRN215, BSN, RN]

There's a reason why nurses get oriented when they start a job. It's not possible to learn all these skills in school... the more specific skills that you need are specific to your unit.