First floor job...scared to death!

Published Jun 25, 2016

4 Posts

Hi! I've had my RN license for just over 2 years but am interviewing for my first floor jobs currently (I worked in an RN Liaison role right out of school). I am scared to death to be a floor nurse...I feel like I don't know anything! I guess I'm wondering- Is this a normal feeling everyone has as a new nurse on the floor? How did your first few shifts go? How long was it until you felt somewhat competent?

I know that I know more than I give myself credit for... I've worked in healthcare for 15+ years. I'm taking a skills refresher course and have continually read literature to keep up with what's going on. But I'm still so nervous! I think it's the skills/tasks that I'm worried about (starting Iv's, catheterizing, maintaining sterile field, trach care, etc) and time management. I'm sure this class will help a lot since it has been 2 years but any input, advice, experience or words of wisdom would be greatly appreciated!!

TYIA