New Grad ED - How to stay confident?

[Dory1025, BSN, RN]

Hi there - looking for some advice. I am a new grad RN-BSN and am starting a new grad program in the emergency room. I have a tendency to take things personally, and know this is going to be tough for me going into my first position. Especially working in the ER where things are stressful. I faired well during my capstone clinical in the ED, but obviously was protected by my very amazing preceptor. I'm worried about my soul being crushed and not being able to bounce back. I know it takes practice and time and will happen eventually. I guess I just need some advice on the mindset I can take into my shifts with me so I can build myself up! What were some things that you did as a new nurse that helped you at the beginning?

Thx

[JKL33]

Random thoughts:

1. You are a learner. There are posts here not infrequently about some small thing a new nurse did which caused them to feel so dumb that they also feel unworthy of being a nurse. With all due respect to how hard it is to be new, that mindset is absolute nonsense. Don't go there.

2. Abolish negative thinking. Take whatever steps are necessary to do so if you are one who struggles with this. Get therapy if necessary.

3. Cultivate a positive mindset. Do NOT take every little thing personally. If your manager has you in the office to constructively discuss performance concerns, then yes, you should undertake introspection. Other than that, know that most negativity from others is about THEM. Do not make it about you. This includes negativity from coworkers, management, physicians, patients, their family members, your friends/family/acquaintances, EVERYONE.

4. Learn to quell emotional reactions, both inward and outward. Set yourself up to be able to emotionally handle what comes your way. It will be rough in the ED and you will have a hard time finding your niche as a nurse in general if you are expecting that things are going to crush your soul. The good news is that you don't have to approach things with that mindset. Start thinking about how some things are going to be a little hard, a little rough here and there, some ups and downs, and you are going to make it! You will. You will not always have the benefit of a preceptor to protect you, and you don't need one. You are capable of learning how to maneuver in healthy ways.

An example scenario go along with this: Someone approaches you with an intent to offer instruction, advice or constructive feedback. From your end, you make good eye contact, look attentive, listen to what is being said, maybe ask a question if clarification is needed, and take it all under advisement--without that feeling of freaking out inside. Just neutral emotions. After you have considered the encounter, you can decide what you need to do about it. If you don't need to do anything or if it was a petty comment or criticism, let it go...see #3.

5. Some of learning nursing is just learning life...and vice versa. Learning about life and people. Everyone has things to overcome in life and in nursing. Have faith that gaining both nursing and life experience is a process and as long as you keep trying and keep learning lessons you're going to gain wisdom that makes life and nursing a little easier. Seeking to understand people is another thing that produces wisdom applicable to life and nursing.

That's all I've got for right now...

 

[Cmbnurse, BSN, RN]

Fellow new grad here. I am about 3 months into the ICU. It's been a roller coaster ride. I can definitely relate to taking things too personally. I think it really made my experience that much harder. Lately I have tried to take a step back and be kinder to myself. I remind myself that I am still learning. And to take any criticism constructively and apply it to help me be a better nurse. Sometimes during code situations nerves can run high and other nurses or doctors might yell but it is just their nerves talking. In ER  you will eventually develop thicker skin with time. But the main thing  to remember is you are learning !  When you make a mistake don't call yourself dumb...your just new. Everyone needs time to get the hang of the job. Everyday with every new challenge you will grow a little and everyday it will get a little bit easier.