First week as an RN

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Hey guys!!

Anyone else out there who is a new grad nurse? I just completed my first week and it wasn't as bad as I imagined it to be.

I think we all work ourselves up thinking that it is going to be so scary starting a new job, with new people, all while learning how to keep people alive. Sounds scary, right? Well, I am here to tell you that it's actually not bad at all. Here is some of my advice for new grads starting on the floor.

First:

Make sure you talk to your director or nurse manager about a preceptor that YOU can learn from and one that you mesh with. Gosh, I feel like I hit the jackpot with my nurse preceptor. She is so awesome and has really complimented my "have to do it myself" to learn, personality. I am definitely a do-er when it comes to learning. I learn very hands on and I wanted someone who was conducive to my learning style.

Find out what your learning style is and make sure your nurse manager/director is able to pair you with someone who allows you to learn at your best capacity.

Second:

Do not be so hard on yourself. Especially the first couple months of being a nurse, you are just LEARNING and don't pay any attention to those who make comments about you or make you feel like you are stupid, because YOU ARENT.

Third:

Do NOT be afraid to ask questions, just find the right people to ask. Avoid people who make you feel bad about questions you ask and find comfort in those who are willing to teach you whatever you may need.

Lastly:

DO not give up early on, give yourself TIME. Time allows us to grow and learn, that is truly the best way to be a great nurse.

Don't give up, keep your head up and stay positive.

YOU GOT THIS!

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Specializes in OMFS, Dentistry.

I needed to read this!!

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Specializes in Cardiac.

That is very sage advice. I've been working 7 months on my own and I still ask questions. Thanks for sharing

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Specializes in RETIRED Cath Lab/Cardiology/Radiology.

After working 42+ years, I STILL ask questions! :)

Thank you for your words and encouragement, for all.

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good read, thanks!

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Specializes in Progressive Care, Sub-Acute, Hospice, Geriatrics.

Thanks lots!!!

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This is awesome advice. I'm a fairly new LVN finishing my RN this May. Even when working at the hospital as an LVN I need reminders to NOT be so hard on myself. I get so embarrassed when I mess up and I feel like I'm walking around butt naked. I start thinking ppl are thinking about my little screw ups when they see me but truth is, they likely are not! They are probably more focused on themselves (or the mistakes they've made or their own insecurities). I'm consciously working on that abd building up my confidence and in doing so it's made BOLD:sneaky: If you're a nursing student who made it this far and have your RN, you may be someone who needs to learn the ropes, but you're far from being a dumb person! Have the spirit of learning and jump in their. Say...."I'll read more about that. Can you show me how you do that?" Jump on in!

I tell myself, it won't be like this 5 years from now! You'll be competent and proficient!

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