feeling like a failure as an Rn.

[jayenurse21]

I am an Rn from the Midwest, who works in a small Birthing center. I have been an Rn now for about 14 mos. Recently I am now working in Labor and Delivery on the day shift. (I had to leave my comfort side of postpartum). I feel pretty confident with my relationships I develop with my patients. I often get compliments of how wonderful of a nurse I am...I am just so frustrated in my skills and lack of confidence. I often feel like a failure. I haven't made any mistakes or have been written up yet (by the grace of god) but its very frustrating when these orientees are catching on quicker than I did. Being a new nurse, its hard to vent to others especially when you know that everyone else will know by the time you come back to work. I have just completed my 3rd night of night shift with very little sleep. My lack of confidence is even greater after I had problematic patients after another. I couldn't start my Iv,blood draws, get my foley in, or even find a damn cervix...all in one night. What is even worse is when you finally get accepted by the others on another shift....you now how to prove yourself all over again to another shift (since I am going to noc shift now) What a first impression for my crew on night shift.... I feel like that poor slow turtle who could never reach the finish line.

[Been there,done that, ASN, RN]

Kind of hard to be good at tasks when you are sleep deprived.

Why aren't you getting any sleep? You must resolve THAT in order to function.

It 's not a disgrace to ask for more training for IV starts and blood draws. It actually shows you are trying to improve your skills.

At the very least.. go to someone that is good at labs/IV's and ask for some guidance.

Foley's are always a challenge. Make sure you have help to visualize the area and plenty of light. I've been a nurse for 30 years... still have an occasional challenge.

As far as a cervix?? I probably couldn't find my own.

STOP beating yourself up.. it is not helping the situation or your confidence.

Get a little more help and realize you learn and grow every day.... even 30 years later.

[Pixiesmom, BSN, RN]

Keep on swimming! Asking for help/tips/pointers doesn't show weakness it shows you want to improve your skills.

As far as a cervix?? I probably couldn't find my own.

I hear ya!