New Graduate Nurse's Guide to Success in the Real World

[Ginafenton]

*Don't be a know-it-all. Nobody likes a cocky graduate nurse. Your veteran counterparts will eat you alive - even if they're not hungry. I'm not sure why this is true but it is. Personally, I don't find new grads or any other type of medical personnel particularly tasty, but believe me - others do.

*You will have bad days. Really bad days. From missed orders, med errors and charting faux pas to hostile patients, deprecating colleagues and administrators. Take nothing personal - Keep on keeping on. Overcoming adversity in the workplace will make you stronger.

*Keep your complaints to coworkers to a minimum and be sure to exercise proper protocol when and if you must file a grievance. Do not whine.

*Your colleagues can be either your biggest source of support or worst nightmare. Tread carefully. Think twice or even three times before crossing or filing a grievance against a coworker.

*Treat preceptors and veteran nurses with respect. They're survivors who've earned their stripes. Listen to their stories. Learn.

*Remember that EVERYONE makes mistakes. Don't be too harsh on yourself or others. Sh*t happens. One day it may be your error. Learn from the experience and move on.

*Be a team player. A license does not excuse you from assisting support staff. The quickest way to earn respect is to dig in and help out.

*Make a habit of learning people's names - it's to your advantage to create allies within your institution. Your job will flow infinitely smoother if you're a team member. Grow a support network.

*Be respectful and mindful of cultural diversity. What's not acceptable in one culture may be perfectly normal in another. It is not your place to judge.

*Everyone learns at a different pace. Some nurses will require extended orientation periods or extra support with certain skills. There is no shame in this. Develop at your own pace. Better to be regarded as slow and cautious than reckless.

*Expertise is gained with time and experience. Clinical skills like starting an IV, interpreting a fetal monitor strip or recognizing a heart murmur are but small measures of a nurses worth. Be patient with yourself. The ability to problem solve, prioritize, lead and communicate effectively are equally essential in forming a solid foundation as a caregiver.

*Be kind. Always.

*Put people first. This will present a tough challenge due to technical advancements like computer charting and ... monitoring.

*A little compassion goes a long way. Remember this when approached by a hostile patient or family member - 9 times out of ten they are fearful and/or experiencing loss of control.

*While you're getting established in your new position keep your personal life personal. Friending new colleagues on Facebook before you know them may not be in your best professional interest. New friendships take time.

*If you make a mistake or think you have, fess up immediately. You're still learning. Owning up to ones mistakes is a virtue. Remain humble.

*Know that your best will not always be good enough. Nursing is a difficult profession. Be receptive to constructive criticism and always give 100%. Remain focused on the positive impact you've had on your patients.

*You will experience a new level of mental and physical exhaustion. This too shall pass. Make an effort to eat healthy, exercise and get plenty of rest. Plan 'me' days... they will keep you afloat during times of undue stress.

*Your institutions policy and procedure manual is your lifeline to providing competent safe patient care. The fundamentals you learned in nursing school will vary depending on the institution. Never assume anything.

The answer to "Do you want to take a break?" is always yes. If you have the opportunity to venture outside during the work day - GO. Fresh air can revitalize.

*Nobody knows everything. Your willingness to utilize resources is almost as valuable as the knowledge itself. Exercise this prudent course of action regularly.

*Be proud in how far you've come and with your choice to serve others. Nursing is a noble profession.

Congratulations on this stellar accomplishment - exercise your new role to make a difference!