Nervous about being a new grad

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Specializes in Med/Surg and ANCC RN-BC.

Hey everyone,

So I am a new grad and have been orienting with a preceptor. My problem is that I am super nervous to call the doctor for my first time. I don't know what to expect and I don't want to sound stupid. I set a goal that I want to call the doctor (and not my preceptor) when I get on the floor again. Does anyone have advice on how to get over this really silly fear? Thanks!

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Specializes in CHN, MH & Addictions, Acute Med, Neuro..

I don't know if you use this tool - but I find SBAR extremely helpful in organizing the pertinent details. Also, keep in mind that most physicians quantify - so if you're trying to convey an emergency situation - make it clear and make sure the objective evidence is there.

The more practice, the better you will get. You can do it! Ps. They can be really nice!

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If you call the Dr make sure you have the chart in front of you, with all the labs, most recent vitals etc. And have all pertinent patient info. That way if they ask a question, you will have the answer somewhere close.

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If you call the Dr make sure you have the chart in front of you, with all the labs, most recent vitals etc. And have all pertinent patient info. That way if they ask a question, you will have the answer somewhere close.

The only problem with that is when the doctor actually calls you back and you're nowhere near the chart or computer :cool:. Love when that happens! SBAR seems like a great tool, but I have yet to encounter a doctor that actually wants to hear the whole spiel. I usually just tell them that the pt so and so, who's doctor is so and so (cause I work nights and it is always on-call who is writing new orders) had such and such procedure and is complaining of itching, pain, nausea, etc and can they order something for them? Short and to the point. Normally lab values and vitals aren't necessary when trying to get the orders my pts need. Depends on your pt population :). Don't be nervous, it's all new to you till you do it a few times!

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Specializes in Med/Surg and ANCC RN-BC.

Thanks everyone! It is my goal to at least do it once when I work this week! All of your advice is awesome. I will let you know how it goes!! i just have to do it once and then i'll be fine. as a student we never could call the doctor, because if they gave us an order we couldn't write it. :)

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Geriatrics, LTC.

Use the SBAR! Better to be over prepared than under! Think of it this way, after you call the Doctor, it will never be your first time again! I still get nervous calling because I never know what she might ask ME! And sometimes they are in a bad mood, or don't feel like working right now and they can be abrupt or worse. But you are a professional and just keep to the facts. It will get easier. Go for it!

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Specializes in Med/Surg and ANCC RN-BC.

I did it! last night I called the doctor! it wasn't as bad as i thought it was going to be. granted i don't feel comfortable with it, i know what to kind of expect from it! thanks for the support everyone!

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