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Discussion

First Nursing Shift

Hello everyone,

I was just wondering if anyone can tell me about their first nursing shift. I am a new nurse, I just graduated in June and I have a job in a hospital on a busy surgical unit. I had two weeks of orientation and have my last day with my preceptor tomorrow. This is my first nursing job and I am feeling overwhelmed and nervous to begin on my own. For the most part, I am able to care for a full patient load, I just feel slow and have trouble with the paperwork that comes along with the job.

Any stories of your first day on the job or tips on how to survive my first year as a nurse would be appreciated :)

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    • Author
    just 2 weeks

    I had 2 weeks with a preceptor (10 shifts). I live in Ontario and most hospital orientations are only 2-3 weeks.

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    I can't comment on first nursing shift yet, as I haven't started just yet (next week, yay!). But I was an NCP (CNA but does more) in a busy hospital on an understaffed medsurg unit.

    I think it's normal to feel behind and slow for a while. You have to get in your own routine and figure out your way of doing things. It'll take a few months at least, I would think.

    I dont think your facility is being very fair in only giving you two weeks.

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    Wow, just 2 weeks? I feel like that's setting you up for failure, honestly. How's it going now?

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    • Author

    My first shift was completely overwhelming. I felt like I was unable to keep up but the staff on the unit are really friendly and helpful. The last few shifts I had were pretty good. I feel like I am learning more now that I am done my orientation because I am responsible for everything for my patients. I'm still asking lots of questions and I still feel slow but I'm sure that will improve with more experience.

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    My first shift was completely overwhelming. I felt like I was unable to keep up but the staff on the unit are really friendly and helpful. The last few shifts I had were pretty good. I feel like I am learning more now that I am done my orientation because I am responsible for everything for my patients. I'm still asking lots of questions and I still feel slow but I'm sure that will improve with more experience.

    That's so good that everyone else is helpful!! That can make a world of difference.

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    Two weeks of orientation is not sufficient to train ANY new grad. You would need 3 months of guidance to apply the skills you have learned .

    You have been set up for failure. The hospital wants to put you to work ASAP , to function as an experienced nurse.. to make money for their bottom line.

    It's YOUR license... demand a full orientation.

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    1972, graduated at 11a, charge nurse in CCU, 3-11p shift,

    same hospital diploma program was based..... I was comfortable, had a ton of clinical experience on same unit.......but that "was back in the day"

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    • Experts

    I admire your endeavor to gather data by comparing notes regarding your first solo shift, NewGradRN114.

    Two weeks orientation on a Med/Surg unit is, as others have pointed out, alarmingly short. Hopefully, your Peers will help buoy you through perilous waters.

    My own "first days" would not be helpful. As an LPN, I became the MN Nurse after working at the LTC Facility as an Aide. As an RN, I had worked the Unit for 3 years as an LPN when transitioning into the role.

    Good luck to you NewGradRN114!

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