New RN anxiety

[smp001RN]

I know this is a common topic, but I have to get it out! I just started working without my preceptor and have been on my own for 3 shifts. I work at a SNF in a rehab unit and I am so nervous every single day, even on my off days. I have read that this takes about a year to overcome, but it seems like I am overwhelmingly anxious. I have done well so far, I have yet to make a mistake, but I ask a million questions and feel like I am not able to think of the right answers in the moment when I'm on the floor. I will go to another nurse with part of the problem solved and when they tell me the rest it seems so obvious, yet it wouldn't come to me right away because I get so nervous. For example, I had a pt with a positive guaiac, I consulted another RN and was told to ask for an order for H&H or any other labs the physician wanted. DUH! I knew that but needed help to arrive at that result in the moment.

I am just so frustrated with myself and I really did think I would catch on much faster. What I think adds the most amount of stress is making sure I fill out all the right paperwork and chart correctly. I am so nervous I will leave something out. I understand the responsibility we have as nurses and I just want to do the best I can, but feel as though I am lacking. Any advise will help!

[SusanGB]

You may need to get help with anxiety. My guess, you are doing a great job.

[CrunchRN, ADN, RN]

If you take it seriously you will have that anxiety. If it gets out of control you should speak with your doctor about anxiety meds. Not Benzodiazepine meds, but there are BP meds that block the adrenaline cascade effect. PM me for info if needed.

[smp001RN]

Thank you! It's already starting to lighten up as I get more used to my unit and peers.

[CCU BSN RN]

Being worried about screwing up and killing someone as a new grad is a good thing. You're asking questions and double checking things. The other nurses don't mind. Even if they seem rushed. They would rather answer 50 silly questions than have you not tell them when your patient is truly in distress. We worry about the new grads who are always fine and don't seem stressed.

It will probably take 6 months to a year on your own before you stop feeling like this. If you stress about work when you're home, you should probably get some help for anxiety, but otherwise just keep asking questions and trying your best, and everything will fall into place. I spent a lot of time my first year wondering if I should choose a new profession, and I'm glad I didn't. It will pass!

[smp001RN]

Yes I felt the same for a little while, I was wondering if I had chosen the right profession and if I could really handle it. I'm better now about not stressing when I'm home, but still find myself randomly thinking about one small thing I may have done wrong. It is slowly getting better. Thanks for the support! It's good to hear from others who have been in my position and know there is a light at the end of the tunnel!