New graduate and so nervous

[Jesnic88]

I just recently graduated from nursing school and have an interview tomorrow for what I hope will be my first job. I am so nervous every time I think about starting my first nursing job. I still feel as if I know nothing even though I've passed my boards. I've never had a job in healthcare so my only experience is my clinical hours so I'm feeling pretty overwhelmed. I'm sure this is normal for most new graduates entering the nursing field but I was wondering if anyone had any tips for a new inexperienced nurse?

[Nurse SMS, MSN, RN]

You do know nothing, so your self assessment is apt. :) You aren't alone....most all of us felt that way in the beginning.

The way to feel better is to acknowledge your feelings, remember why you wanted to do this and then just wrap your head around the fact that it will be 1-2 years before you start to feel like you have your feet under you. What you bring to the table right now is the ability to recognize changes in the patient's condition, a strong desire and willingness to learn and the ability to get along with patients and coworkers. You are a new grad. Nobody expects more than that right now.

Good luck at your interview.

[meanmaryjean, DNP, RN]

Totally normal.

ask questions - even if you think they are 'stupid'. The scariest nurse is the one who would rather make a mistake than ask a 'stupid question'.

Good luck!

[caregiverology]

Nursing is an ongoing learning experience. You are always learning new things. The moment you feel like you know everything there is to know is the moment you will fail. Just know that you will make mistakes, but learn from them. Like meanmaryjean said, ask questions constantly and look things up when you don't know what they are. You will never be an all-knowing nurse. It would be worrisome if you weren't feeling overwhelmed. That anxiety will keep you on your toes. Just don't let it discourage you. Best of luck.