Need Advice

[Kbelle, ASN]

Hey everyone, and thanks for taking the time to click and read. I posted those in the critical care section but wanted to expand this topic.

I recently switched to a SICU/CVICU unit after working on an acute oncology floor, specializing in oncology emergencies for around a year and a half. I’ve been in the ICU for close to six months now and I’m still so unsure of myself. I feel that I have definitely made progress, but doubt myself often. I have a wonderful support system, and my coworkers are extremely helpful, but I feel terrible when I ask questions all the time.


 I was wondering if anyone had any words of wisdom to feeling more comfortable and confident in an ICU setting after working in a more acute/floor setting? I have been a nurse just over two years and welcome any and all advice. 

[jobellestarr]

I think time will be on your side. Think of all the information you have amassed and it takes time to integrate that knowledge and put it into practice. Also, I will say that if you didn’t have anxiety about being in nursing that would be worrisome. Anxiety (within reason and not paralyzing) can be a good thing as it keeps you on your toes.

Don’t worry about asking quality, it’s the ones that don’t ask that can get themselves into trouble.

It sounds like you’re doing a great job and give yourself a good couple of years. And the most important thing is to be kind to yourself. Thank you for your good work ❤️

[Kbelle, ASN]

16 minutes ago, jobellestarr said:

I think time will be on your side. Think of all the information you have amassed and it takes time to integrate that knowledge and put it into practice. Also, I will say that if you didn’t have anxiety about being in nursing that would be worrisome. Anxiety (within reason and not paralyzing) can be a good thing as it keeps you on your toes.

Don’t worry about asking quality, it’s the ones that don’t ask that can get themselves into trouble.

It sounds like you’re doing a great job and give yourself a good couple of years. And the most important thing is to be kind to yourself. Thank you for your good work ❤️

Thank you so much! I feel I sometimes have a hard time converting from the task oriented side of floor nursing to the more critical thinking aspect of the ICU. Evaluations are coming up soon and I’m hoping to glean some insight from that

[jobellestarr]

Dang auto correct. Questions not quality.

[Davey Do]

2 hours ago, Kbelle said:

I feel that I have definitely made progress, but doubt myself often. I have a wonderful support system, and my coworkers are extremely helpful

From where I sit, Kbelle,it seems that you have a perfect situation for being, as you probably are, a very very good nurse, and have the makings of being a great nurse.

Jobellestarr's entire post was beautifully-worded with outstanding and wise words.

I quoted these portions because they really stood out for me:

1 hour ago, jobellestarr said:

Anxiety (within reason and not paralyzing) can be a good thing as it keeps you on your toes.

Yes- Emotionally, physically, and cognitively.

1 hour ago, jobellestarr said:

the most important thing is to be kind to yourself. Thank you for your good work ❤️

This could not have been said in better words.

The best to you, Kbelle. And jobellestarr!

[Kbelle, ASN]

4 hours ago, Davey Do said:

From where I sit, Kbelle,it seems that you have a perfect situation for being, as you probably are, a very very good nurse, and have the makings of being a great nurse.

Jobellestarr's entire post was beautifully-worded with outstanding and wise words.

I quoted these portions because they really stood out for me:

Yes- Emotionally, physically, and cognitively.

This could not have been said in better words.

The best to you, Kbelle. And jobellestarr!

Thank you for the kind words!