How long did it take you as a new grad to feel "ok" at a new job?

[kk83]

I started a job as an RN on a Cardiac Stepdown Unit about 5 weeks ago (3 on the floor). It is a very high energy and fast paced job and I find it difficult to learn everything/keep up/ and be as efficient (fast) as I'm expected to be. We have approximately 5 patients each per shift (sometimes a bit more). I am still with a preceptor and working on getting everything accomplished in a timely manner. It's not coming easily unfortunately.

I am totally ok with constructive criticism - I know I need to be more assertive and work on my time management. I feel like I try new techniques daily and I end up in the same place. Learning more, but time - wise ending up around the same. The patient acuity level is much higher than what I saw during clinical and I am also charting electronically for the first time.

I guess what I am getting at is - how long did it take you to feel competent and comfortable at your first job after getting your license? I am really trying to stay optimistic and realize that I'm learning and doing the best I can. Most days I feel like a failure who won't ever "get there". Any advice or anyone who can relate?

[Sun0408, ASN, RN]

About 3 month to feel ok and not totally overwhelmed, 6 months to pick up speed, get charting done on time and deal with crabby pts and family without taking it personally:) A full year to put it all together.. Now that is not to say some shifts are all peachy because they are not but

[beeker]

Ive been out of orientation since end of April and I still have more crazy nights than good. But it is getting better! Going in the right direction.

[Sun0408, ASN, RN]

sorry, somehow hit the add comment...

but...I can deal better with the stress and the craziness of the unit, I know what questions to ask, I know when to call the doc and most of the time know what I need to help my pt. I could continue but you get the idea... It takes alot of time to get it and pull it all together, but it will happen. Always ask for help when you need it,unsure, or doing something for the first time.. You don't have all the answers and you never will. You will learn everyday, look things up you are unfamiliar with.. Give yourself a break, nursing school and actual nursing are different beasts :)

[anotherone, BSN, RN]

Med surg and 5-6 months to not feel extreme dread before everyshift and after everyshift. But sometimes I still feel that way but a lot less than in the beginning! At this time period I knew better what to excpect, more familiar with everything that went on etc.