Hello everyone! I have been lurking for some time now and figured this is the time for me to jump in :)
I am a new grad (Aug 2006) and started as a med-surg noc nurse in December. I was very fortunate to have a wonderful preceptor and felt confident that I would do ok flying solo. This weekend was my first time on my own. I had a full load of 7 pts with occasional dc's and admits.
Unfortunately my first 3 shifts on my own were HORRIBLE. I felt like I was drowning. Each day I left over an hour late and left a couple dressing changes and consents to be signed for the day nurse. I don't want to be known as the nurse that passes all the work to the day nurse.
A couple nurses have told me that I will hit my groove in about 6 months but I don't know if I can wait that long. I am usually a very optimistic, "I can do anything I set my mind to" kind of gal.. But this is definately testing me. I drove home with tears streaming down my face and didn't get any sleep due to nightmares that I missed medications and forgot charting. I feel like I hear call light bells all day long. Is this normal? Any words of encouragement or advice would be GREATLY appreciated!