Horrible anxiety when giving meds

Dear Nurse Beth Advice Column - The following letter submitted anonymously in search for answers. Join the conversation!

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I have horrible anxiety administering meds. I worry that I'll mess up and harm/kill my patient which is obviously not the goal as a nurse. I've been working in a remote non clinical nursing role for the last 5 years and worked in behavioral health for 3 years prior to that. I want to get back out of the house but my fear of giving meds prevents me from doing so. Do you have any advice on how I can overcome this paralyzing fear?

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Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Feeling anxious about administering medication is understandable, given its high stakes. However, the extreme level of anxiety needs to be addressed to move forward.

It might also be helpful to talk to a therapist or counselor who specializes in anxiety or work-related stress. They can provide additional strategies and support tailored to your situation.

Here are some strategies that might help you manage and eventually overcome this fear:

  • Review medication administration protocols to refresh your knowledge. Familiarity with the procedures can boost your confidence, and following the same steps every time you administer medication provides safety.
  • Bar code scanning helps you avoid a mistake with built-in safeguards.
  • Start gradually. If you can, ease back into clinical practice by starting with less complex cases or shifts where you can work alongside experienced colleagues who can offer support and guidance.
  • Seek mentorship. Find a mentor or a peer who can provide reassurance, answer questions, and review your medication administration practices with you.
  • Mindfulness and stress management. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation can help manage your anxiety. Incorporating these practices into your routine might help you stay calm in high-pressure situations.
  • Reflect on past successes. Remind yourself of the times you've successfully administered medications in the past. Reflecting on your experience can help counterbalance your fears.
  • Continued education. Attending workshops or courses on medication administration and pharmacology can keep your knowledge current and your skills sharp.

As you return to clinical practice, set small, achievable goals for yourself. Celebrate your progress and understand that overcoming fear is a gradual process.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

 

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