New Nurse Feels Like a Failure

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'm a newly registered nurse and I have just started to work as of late October. I feel extremely stupid and incompetent, I feel that I know close too nothing and that I do not belong in this profession. The staff isn't satisfied that I'm not learning fast enough despite it being 1 week. And I feel like I'm drowning. Whenever doing something I always double check and ask again to ensure that I make no mistakes, but even that feels like a failing on my part as they only get irritated. I just wanted to ask is there any way to get better faster? Because I have only just started and yet I already feel like I have made a mistake in applying for nursing.

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Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Dear Not Learning Fast Enough,

It's entirely normal to feel overwhelmed and uncertain when you're a newly registered nurse. The transition from nursing school to a natural healthcare setting is challenging, and it takes time to build confidence and competence in your role.

Your preceptors may be impatient, and while they should be encouraging and supportive, try not to take it personally. Their workload may not have been adjusted to accommodate training a new nurse.

Here are some tips to help you navigate this challenging period and become a more confident and competent nurse:

  • Give yourself time. Remember that it's entirely normal to feel this way in the beginning. You are a novice nurse. It takes time to become a competent practitioner. As a reality check, most nurses take six months to a year to feel comfortable. Double-checking yourself is part of the learning process.
  • Seek mentorship. Find experienced nurses or colleagues who are willing to mentor you. A mentor can provide invaluable guidance and support as you learn the ropes.
  • Ask questions. Don't hesitate to ask questions when you're unsure about something. It's better to ask for clarification than to make a mistake. Your colleagues should understand that you're new and that learning is part of the process.
  • Stay organized. Being organized can help you manage your tasks efficiently. Create a checklist, use a planner or any system that works for you to ensure you're on top of your responsibilities.
  • Reflect and learn. After each shift, take a few moments to reflect on what you learned and what you can do better next time. Learning from your experiences is an essential part of professional growth. Even after just one week, you have made progress. Remember your first day and credit yourself for what you've learned.
  • Self-confidence. Believe in yourself and your abilities. Confidence comes with experience, so give yourself time to grow into your role.
  • Effective communication. If your colleagues seem irritated when you ask questions or seek clarification, try to communicate your concerns. Let them know that you are eager to learn and improve and you value their guidance.
  • Self-care. Take care of your physical and mental health. Nursing can be demanding, and self-care is crucial to maintain your well-being.

Remember that most new nurses go through a similar phase of self-doubt and adjustment. It's a challenging profession, but it can also be gratifying as you gain experience and become more confident in your abilities.

With time, you can become a competent and skilled nurse. Don't be too hard on yourself, and lean on your support network as you continue to grow in your nursing career.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

 

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