No Confidence

[tlstackh]

I just graduated from an ASN program in July. I worked as a student nurse extern in the family rooms at a large suburban hospital. I feel fortunate to have found a job--many of my classmates have been unable to find work. I'm starting at a level 2 special care nursery this week.

My problem is that even with my student nursing experience (which was extremely limited), I do not feel ready for this position. I have 12 weeks of preceptor training for this job. Everyone tells me that I will be ready when my preceptor training is complete, but I have lots of reservations. I have a great grasp of theory--I was valedictorian of my nursing school class, but I would be the first to tell anyone that my skills are poorly developed. The idea of resuscitating a baby scares me to death. Lots of babies come out blue. This is a big part of the job. I'm still struggling with getting newborn vitals. Little hearts go so fast and if I lose count I have to start all over again for another minute. It takes me awhile to complete an assessment on a healthy two-day old newborn let alone resuscitate, do the initital assessment, assign apgars, tag, dry, and diaper a screaming newborn.

Don't get me wrong, this is where I want to be. In fact, it is the entire reason that I returned to nursing school. However, I feel like there is an expectation that I will become a seasoned nurse in 12 weeks. I feel so incredibly stressed and simply not ready. I understand why the new nurse attrition rate is 50%. I would appreciate any insight that you have to offer. Thanks

[NurseThis21, BSN, RN]

Honey, you've just graduated! Don't assume that you're gonna be superwoman within a few short weeks! It takes years for everyone to feel comfortable and if you already feel "comfortable" at the end of just 12 weeks then I'd be weary as a preceptor! There's so much to learn and so many mistakes to make. That's the joy of nursing! As long as you don't kill anyone, it's okay to learn the hard way!

Also, a good preceptor would know that his/her pupil is no where near expert level at the end of training. You're going to continue asking questions and feeling unsure about things. But hey, that's what they're there for, right!?

Don't worry about the slow process of learning new things; just swim with the fishes and don't try to jump out the water to see what's ahead! That's what will make you humble as a nurse; knowing that you won't be the next Florence Nightingale come Christmas time!

And as for the nurse attrition rate, it's kind of like nursing school; unfortunately, this profession weeds out those who can't take on such an exciting challenge. So I'd say 50% is great! That's way better than art school!

Good Luck to you and have fun on your new journey! As I say to everyone else, this training period is the last time you'll get away with silly (but not life-threatening!) mistakes!

NurseThis21, BSN, RN

UIC Alumna

[tabswifeRN]

first off, congradualations on such an awsome job. Second, confidence will come as you learn. I remember just starting the program and having little to no confidence as I am sure we all did. But look at us now we are RN's. You will do GREAT. It just takes time. Heck I just started in a LTC facility and even though I know that once I learn I will be awsome as you will, I feel a little out of sorts. I think we all feel that way with our very first "real" nursing job. Don't beat yourself up, your not alone. You will be a wonderful nurse, it just takes time. Good luck!!!!!!!

[50caliber]

Just take it easy and remember the basics. Trust me, they don't expect you know everything being a new grad. You will drive yourself nuts. Just take it one day at at a time. Confidence will come with experience. 12 weeks preceptorship will not expose you to everything. Simply roll with it in terms of seeing new things and always ask questions.