normal to still be nervous

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Is it normal to still be nervous after one month on the job at an extended care facility?

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Hi Joann 9915. I just wanted to let you know, that it takes a while to feel comfortable with an new job in nursing. Once you get to know your patients well, and it usually takes a little time, you should be feeling less nervous. Besides caring for patients, you will also have to do things to your facilty's policy and according to your scope of practice. That being said, it will also take a while to feel comfortable with the paperwork and/or pcc. I only mention this to you because it took me some time to feel comfortable and less nervous, as well. I've been a nurse for quite a few years and there are many changes as you go. Hopefully by now, you have found a nurse that you feel you can trust. This way you can always feel free to ask any questions when you might be in doubt. It's all good. Just remember to keep taking breaths and to do your best. You sound like you're a very good nurse. Best of luck to you!;)

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

I worked in extended care facilities for the first six years of my career. I felt somewhat nervous until I approached my first anniversary as a nurse. One year of experience is the approximate point at which I felt I began to hit my stride as a nurse.

So, yes, I would say that nervousness is still normal a few months in...

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Specializes in GENERAL.

You are still fairly new so that "nervousness" is really a way for you keep yourself on your toes.

Even when you've got it down most people still maintain a certain edge no matter where you work in healthcare.

The reality in taking care of people is that once you gain confidence in your abilities it takes a lot to actually kill somebody. But with this said a certain amont of nervous energy will.keep you from becoming complacent.

And in becoming complacent, that's when the stuff hits the fan.

This kind of necessary alertness while working can be exhausting mentally but that goes with the territory so try to always get lots of rest.

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Specializes in Neuro ICU and Med Surg.

Your nervousness will ease with time, but it is not uncommon after only one month. Most nurses start to feel comfortable at one year.

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