how to not be frazzled

[Melly0104]

I have been a nurse for almost a year (June will be a year) and I had my evaluation recently. One of the things mentioned is that I become easily frazzled during stressful situations. I work on a progressive care unit with a ratio of 3:1 or 4:1. Whether it be someone going down the drain or just a heavy assignment my stress shows. My evaluation did mention that I have gotten better and do calm down and focus eventually. I am wondering how not to freak out initially? Maybe it will come with time but I am beating myself up. I feel like everyone else I started with handles their self better. I do ask lots of questions and second guess myself a lot even when I know the answer. I am getting better at asking for help. Any ways to help refocus myself quicker after this initial freaking out? Thanks

[SoldierNurse22, BSN, RN]

It does come with time. Freaking out is a natural human response in a disaster. It takes time, especially for some personalities, to train themselves to remain calm in an emergency. Often times, that tendency to become frazzled will disappear as you become more comfortable and adept in your job. Competent practice is a great stress reliever, and for new nurses, that may take a year or so to achieve on your own.

In situations like that, I always try to review my actions honestly afterward. What could I have done better? Did I learn a new process that I wasn't previously aware of? What were the experienced nurses doing/asking for? Asking your more experienced coworkers for guidance isn't a bad thing, either. If you feel comfortable, have someone you trust who is more experienced assist you in reviewing your actions and the appropriate actions to take in such situations.

Also, there's nothing like taking a deep breath before plunging in. Try not to allow yourself to get tunnel vision. Focusing on the big picture not only keeps your head in the game, but it keeps you from getting wrapped up around the details.

Best of luck and know that most every nurse goes through this, whether or not their stress is visible to observers.