How long after graduating till you felt confident?

tannymarie110 · Sep 20, 2009

I oftened wondered in that first year of being a new nurse...what did I get myself into. I was so terrified of hurting someone, and felt like a complete moron. It does get better!! I worked for about a year before I felt my confidence start to improve along with my knowledge and skills. Find yourself a mentor at work who is a good teacher and does not mind you asking a zillion questions. I also suggest you apply for a graduate nurse position.

KAYBDT6, BSN, RN · Sep 21, 2009

100% Confident after graduating because i have read my butt out.

Ruby Vee, BSN · Sep 21, 2009

100% confident after graduating because i have read my butt out.

huh?

if you feel 100% confident as a new grad, you're obviously missing something. it takes a couple of years generally.

stillearnin · Sep 21, 2009

Thank Ruby!

I have a 4.0 and have studied and work harder than anything else I've ever done before...but when I hit the floor with my preceptor I still have moments where I go brain dead! It's getting better, but it seems like the more I learn, the more I realize I don't know! Does that make sense?

teeniebert, LPN · Sep 21, 2009

We may be talking about different kinds of confidence here. About 2 hours into my first shift (new LPN, subacute/rehab wing of LTC facility) I sort of felt something click into place like, "ok, I can do this. I know my stuff." I'm not comfortable in this job yet, though. I don't know where things are, I don't know all the policies and procedures, I'm constantly double-and triple-checking, and I feel like I'm driving my preceptors insane with questions. It'll probably be at least 6 months, likely more, before I feel that sort of confidence.