mentally drained

It will get better. :)

I clearly remember the day, about six months into my nursing career, when I was walking down the hallway and I realized that I "got it." The change had happened gradually so I almost didn't notice, but there I was, reasonably confident in my abilities, organizing my time, and the vast majority of the time having a good day!

It takes time. I learned most of what I know as a nurse from working this past year and a half. I learn better when its hands on and from simply doing nursing than reading about it. When you get your first job they will provide you with orientation and more training as well. You also learn as you go.

This is normal, and it will get better to the point you will only go home mentally exhausted about 1/3 of the time. Yes, there will be good and bad shifts. We all strive for mostly good shifts, sometimes that is simply out of our control. Do not forget that, somethings are out of our control.

My best advice, enjoy your days off, do fun things. Try not to think about work on your time off. Do what is good for you and your love ones. It is the same advice we all should take.

Like the others said, this isn't unusual for the orientation period. You WILL be forgetting some of what you learned, no doubt, and don't freak that you're a mental defective of some sort when you do

Find a rejuvenating activity on your days off: hobbies, exercise, reading, socializing, playing with pets, whatever recharges your batteries.

Then go back for more! And you will one day be writing the same bit of advice to a new grad yourself :)

I agree with these posts, if you do not possess good coping skills and fullfilling leisure activities, you must put these on your "to do" list. Get rest when you need it, embrace pleasurable moments often, find the beauty in a challenging situation, build a good support system and strive to be a supportive ally with your nursing partners.