How can I succeed as a new grad RN?

NICUmiiki, DNP, NP · Oct 15, 2018

Ask questions (ask experienced people, not people as new as you), don't assume. Accept feedback. Read policies.

Most people on my big unit started as new grads.

Preemie 2 RN, ASN, RN · Oct 17, 2018

ASK QUESTIONS! No question is stupid and we'd rather you ask a question than just assume and possibly make an error that could hurt a baby.

Seek out opportunities! As a new grad in a NICU there are many skills you will not have practiced in nursing school as NICU is specialized and you usually don't get much NICU experience in school. Don't shy away from trying new things. It's best to just jump in and give it a try (of course with supervision/permission from your preceptor). Once you are allowed to start IVs, help with procedures, do sterile line/dressing changes, etc volunteer to do them even if it isn't your patient. The more experience you get with doing these skills the better you will get.

If there is a code going on or something you aren't familiar with (or maybe the nurse in the same pod/are as you is swamped with a busy admit) don't just go hide in the corner. It is okay to not know what to do. Ask where you can help out, even if it is just running to get supplies needed, calling for xray, writing things down, etc while the more experienced nurses take over. Be helpful.

Know that you will not feel comfortable/feel like you are fully confident in what you are doing until around 1-2 years of working in NICU. You will doubt yourself, feel like you aren't doing anything correct, worry you are falling behind, etc. It is important to communicate these feelings with your preceptor though to see if these feelings are valid and maybe you need more support or time perfecting a skill/time management or if these feelings are just thew newbie jitters and you are actually on the "right track".

Good luck!

Leader25, ASN, BSN, RN · Oct 27, 2018

Go home and read every night.Do not be afraid of the tough cases.Be willing to ask questions not like the one where after a six month period wants to know what NEC is. Find their med bible and make sure you check and double check before giving.Know your Nals doses,know ett size by weight ,and number.Immerse yourself and you will never regret it.

Be humble,in nicu there is always someone who is competitive and wants everyone to know that she picked up on the sudden crash of the the patient and knew exactly what it was.Just nod,dont comment,put your nose to your work.

Blessings,good luck.