New nurse is desperate, please help

Dear Nurse Beth Advice Column - The following letter submitted anonymously in search for answers. Join the conversation!

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Dear Nurse Beth,

I am desperate! I do not feel confident giving a good report to Doctor, or good report to fellow nurses. Please help! How can I give a good report to Doctor. I work in triage and treatment center in corrections. Feeling lost, maybe nursing is not for me after all. I am new RN got about a year of experience, most of it in corrections. I do not well in interviews. Have not been able to get a job at a hospital setting.

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Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Dear Lost,

I understand giving report to doctors and fellow nurses can be challenging, especially when you're feeling overwhelmed and lacking confidence.

Please know that many new nurses go through similar feelings, and it's essential to give yourself time and support to develop these skills.

Here are some tips to help you improve your report-giving skills:

Be prepared. Before giving a report, review the patient's chart and relevant information, including their medical history, current medications, vital signs, and recent assessments. Being prepared will help you feel more confident during the report.

Organize your thoughts. Structure your report in a clear and organized manner. Start with the patient's name, age, and reason for presentation. Then, provide a concise summary of the patient's history, assessment findings, and any pertinent changes since their last evaluation.

Use SBAR. SBAR (Situation-Background-Assessment-Recommendation) is a standardized communication tool that many healthcare settings use. It helps ensure that critical information is communicated effectively. 

Practice. Practice giving report with your colleagues or in front of a mirror. The more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you will become.

Seek feedback. Ask your colleagues for feedback on your report-giving skills. Constructive feedback can help you identify areas for improvement and build confidence.

Learn from experienced nurses. Observe how experienced nurses give report and learn from their communication techniques. Ask them for advice and guidance.

Stay calm and composed. It's normal to feel nervous during report, especially as a new nurse. Take a deep breath. Stay calm, focused, and collected. Remember that everyone starts somewhere, and with practice, you will improve.

Be open to learning Nursing is a profession that requires continuous learning and growth. Be open to learning from your positive and challenging experiences, and use them to improve your skills.

Regarding interviews, consider seeking interview coaching or practicing with a friend or mentor. Focus on highlighting your strengths, experiences, and dedication to patient care. Remember that every interview is an opportunity to learn and grow, regardless of the outcome.

Lastly, feeling lost or unsure about your career path is normal, especially as a new nurse. Take some time to reflect on your interests and passions within nursing. If you feel that the correctional setting is not the right fit, consider exploring other nursing opportunities that align with your interests.

Above all, be patient with yourself and remember that nursing is a dynamic and rewarding profession. Seek support from your colleagues, mentors, or nurse educators, and continue to invest in your professional development.

With time and effort, your confidence and skills will improve, and you will find your place in nursing.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

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