New grad, start first RN job next week!

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...and I'm petrified!:eek:

I did very well in school, but suddenly I feel like I know NOTHING. I haven't had a clinical since March... I feel very rusty and like I can't remember one single intervention for anything! I know I'll have several weeks of orientation, but is this normal?? I feel like a failure before I even start.

Any words of advice would be most appreciated.:nurse:

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Specializes in Med-Tele, Internal Med PCU.

Your first couple days may very well be classroom time, doing HR paperwork, listening to some of the key players, learning hospital safety procedures, showing some competancies, learning where to park, getting your commute time figured out, etc. Some how that works to get you in the right mindset to hit the floor.

When you get to the floor and meet your preceptor(s) they will start you out slowly and everything will be done under their supervision, just like school talk yourself through the processes, the preceptor should gradually allow you more and more autonomy until you are handling the full pt load.

The best advice is to be prepared, bring school books in for reference, and ask questions. If you feel like you and your preceptor are not on the same page don't hesitate to let your preceptor & educator/manager know early on, don't wait until day 50 of a 60 day orientation to voice your concern(s). Do homework, review what you learned that day (or week), make note of things you need to work on - and make your preceptor aware of those needs/desires.

Finally, don't try to be "SuperNurse" ask questions of your preceptor, other RNs, MDs ... even carepartners/aides/techs, observe new procedures (if you have the time).

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Specializes in Emergency.

You can do it!

You need to have confidence while not being over confident understanding that you are new and this is a great time to ask questions as many as you can. Be prepared for work everyday and show your preceptor that you are willing to work hard to be a part of the team. Effort is important and appreciated when new nurses hit the floor.

Everything will come with time. Take a breath and smile. Good Luck!!

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