New Grad Feels Nothing When Offered Position

[Thought, BSN, RN]

Hello all! Like many others, I am new to the forums. During nursing school, I'd spend all my time studying until the wee hours of the morning, and wake up a few hours later to go to school or study more. I never allowed myself free time. I graduated nursing school with my ADN in May 2013. I took my NCLEX the first time in July and had a high anxiety/stress level when I arrived from getting lost along the way. I didn't pass, and it devastated me. I was so excited to start my career as a nurse, because I love taking care of people and helping them. The second time I took my NCLEX in December 2013, I passed. Instead of being excited, I felt nothing.

After hundreds of nursing position applications, I just got a job offer today at a hospital (I was told all the rejections were because I didn't have a BSN, which upset me). Originally, I shot for level 1 and 2 hospitals, with the hopes of getting into one where I'd see everything and learn as much as I can. I wanted a great teaching hospital where I could learn to be the best nurse I can be for my patients, to give them safe, high quality care. I was hoping to get a job in the ER. The hospital is level 4 and the position is for MS (but they're willing to cross-train me in the ER). Their MS unit covers all ages, but I was told peds and newborn pts are rarely there anymore because of receiving immunizations. I'd work day shift, in one of the three unit's "pods" or "mini-units". The "pods" have 14 beds each, and I'd have 7 pts (I'm used to 4 with student nursing clinicals). During day shift, for each "pod" they have 1 RN, 1 LPN, and 1 CNA. If I feel too overwhelmed during day shift, after some dayshift orientation they'd be willing to let me try night shift, where each pod only has 3 RNs, and only 4-5 pts each. In addition to a benefits package, they're offering $1,500 relocation assistance, which would be paid in my first paycheck. I have only a few days to decide.

The thing is...like when I passed the NCLEX, I felt nothing when offered the position. Is something wrong with me? Did I burn myself out with studying constantly for 3 years (and skipped spending time with family and friends to study or relax...which I now regret)? I really want to start my career as a nurse, but I don't understand why I'm not feeling anything. Any thoughts or suggestions?

[Lev, MSN, RN, NP]

Maybe you're in shock...that you're here..done with school and entering the world of nursing for real this time. It sounds like an awesome opportunity! Go for it! :) You'll be great :)

[RunBabyRN]

One thing to think about with smaller hospitals versus enormous teaching hospitals (and teaching means medical residents, not nurses) is that you may actually see more variety than you would in a large hospital with 75 sub-specialized units. Also, depending on how remote the place is, you may be the only game in town. That doesn't necessarily mean you won't learn how to give safe, high-quality care.

It sounds like they're willing to teach you and work with you to keep you happy, which speaks volumes. At a large teaching hospital, it's easy to get lost in the shuffle, especially as a new grad.

Take what's available to you, especially with your ADN, and being an "old new grad."

[CrunchRN, ADN, RN]

You may just be scared. Grab it and jump in.

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

whilie in school we have an idea of what to expect next. But once we go to work we face lots of unexpected twists and turns in life. So maybe you are feeling a little unsure. Good luck!

[Thought, BSN, RN]

Thank you all so much for your help, I greatly appreciate it!