First clinical taking care of 2 patients; does it get any easier?

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This was my first time taking care of 2 patients and (at least) from 0700-1000 it felt so hectic. I was late for almost everything- vitals, assessment, meds... I felt so disorganized. When I asked my other cohorts, they said that they were doing fine. I know that I'm catastrophizing here, but I kind of feel like a failure in a sense. Any advice or inspiration, because I'm in desperate need of it.

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As someone who was VERY recently in your shoes (September) I will tell you that you are not only gonna get the hang of it but will soon be feeling very on top of more than 2 (and maybe even feel bored at times)!

For me it has all been about balance. What is top priority? What can wait a few minutes? How can I adapt my schedule to the patient/nurse/classmate? Be proactive now in the beginning stages by asking for feedback from your primary or instructor! Listen to what they have to say! Also, maybe try keeping a record of your day (or just remember it well). Go over what roadblocks you faced and what could be improved. Although in nursing nothing truly goes by a schedule, it is great to have your battle plan in the back of your mind.

Finally, never ever be afraid to ask for help if you are overwhelmed... Just be sure it isn't a habit because that can become irritating to the hospital staff. Remember EVERYONE wants you to succeed!!! Good luck!!

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You're not alone, and it's normal to have those feelings! I just finished my program, and I feel now is when my real learning begins. It's a lot to take in! I have patient safety on my mind, I feel like I have so much to learn and there is so much I didn't see in clinical.

I would ask other nurses on your unit for tips and strategies. That's what I did, I started packing my pockets with flushes, wipes, gauze and tape. I blocked out things I needed to do .... Picked up on time management strategies and what works for different nurses.

You're not a failure....We're learning! If anything I would say ask your preceptor lots of questions... And practice makes perfect! Keep working hard, learn from the veterans who know the ropes, and keep with it.

As a new grad, I feel I'm a guppy in an ocean. Medicine is huge and nursing school is a pinhole view into it. ... everything you're feeling I am as well. We will both get there!

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Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.
This was my first time taking care of 2 patients and (at least) from 0700-1000 it felt so hectic. I was late for almost everything- vitals, assessment, meds... I felt so disorganized. When I asked my other cohorts, they said that they were doing fine. I know that I'm catastrophizing here, but I kind of feel like a failure in a sense. Any advice or inspiration, because I'm in desperate need of it.

700-730 - get report, look up patients, quickly introduce yourself

730-800 - Go to least busy patient's room first. Do assessment and vital signs and document. Move on to next room and repeat.

800-830 - pass morning meds

830-1000 See if your patient needs anything else. Now that you are caught up you can sit and chat. And toilet. And make their bed. And help them with breakfast. In other words, the tasks which do not require a nursing license. You can also write a note at this time. If they have dressing changes do them now.

And if you didn't get everything done, don't fret. You are still learning. Remember, chat little and do much.

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