1 month into Residency and I want to Run!

NURSEJERI, ADN · Dec 22, 2021

(im not an expert at all!!) Are you receiving support from your preceptor or management. I've seen a number of Youtube videos from nurses who are in residencies that highlight "don't be afraid to ask for help." Thats the job of the management to make sure you feel confident and supported. ♥️

azulaflameRN, ADN, RN · Dec 26, 2021

Hi

I'm a new grad too and I'm in the same boat as you! Everything is so fast paced and I struggle to keep up with everything...I'm slow as well because I want to stay safe especially when it comes to the meds! I feel like theres no time to really understand the "big picture" when it comes to the patients because it gets so busy I cant even chart properly AND I cant even give a good report 95% of the time because I fall behind, so I just say what I observed and how I intervened. ? But tbh, as annoying as this must be I would rather be slow and careful than rush and commit a deadly mistake! Definitely express your thoughts/concerns to your preceptor or manager if you are uncomfortable, if they care about your well being they will understand trust me. Nursing is a tough profession and as new nurses we definitely need that support, despite my struggles I'm lucky to have helpful and supportive coworkers who will guide me whenever necessary. If you are not receiving that, speak to your boss or consider changing your learning environment. Also, IDK if its allowed but try to take a day or two off to relax a bit.. getting sick over a job is never good!

Remember that you are not alone and that you are not a failure, you got through nursing school and passed the NCLEX so you have what it takes.

Leader25, ASN, BSN, RN · Dec 27, 2021

On 12/21/2021 at 10:00 AM, Sunflower1194 said:

you feel anxious, but I feel all of this to the highest degree. I get sick just coming into work because I’m so scared

Anxiety for whatever reason is experienced the same way,I am feeling like that right after some at home stress,but you will have to decide if it is for you.If they are nice and helping you learn then stay, give time and patience a chance,none of us were born walking. Good luck to you.

Living2Learn, BSN, RN · Dec 27, 2021

One of the things that they don't really talk about in school is speediness. They talk often about time efficiency and time management, but when you're an actual nurse (esp on the floor), you do have to be quick. You will quickly find yourself getting behind schedule if you spend too much time or get caught up in something that doesn't align with your work flow. I can't tell you not to be nervous or that you'll get faster (I'm sure you're tired of hearing this), but I can give you a few bits of advice.

Lower your expectation. If you're in a new graduate residency, everyone knows you're a new grad. You're not expected to know everything nor will you. Often times we beat ourselves up over things that seem like they're a bigger deal than they are. It is likely that others are viewing your performance under the lens that you're a new grad and learning - you should do the same.
You should feel fully supported in a new grad residency. Do not be afraid to ask for help, fail, learn from your mistakes (safely). If you do not feel supported, be vocal about it. No one can help you if they don't know you need help. If you don't feel like the program is supporting you despite our efforts to get more support and reach out, then you can escalate it.
Become okay being uncomfortable. A healthy amount of fear is something that can keep your patient safe. Be hypervigilant and double and triple check yourself often. This is a great habit to make strong and safe nurses.