Starting a new position nervous

[krd2984]

I recently accepted an awesome position as a full time float nurse in a nicu/picu/cicu float pool and I am all of a sudden nervous to start! My background is in a level III neonatal intensive care unit and I have no qualms about being around babies who are 15 ozs, patients who are on dopamine or hfov but now that I am moving to full blown pediatrics I feel that what if I am being judged that all I have done is nicu and will it be good enough. I will be trained in each floor and have not only precepted time but have set time on each floor afterwards to continue to be acclimated to each unit to ensure I am comfortable.

Any advice out there to help ease my nervousness. I am excited to start and cannot wait to expand my nursing practice but I nervous about my big move.

[amzyRN]

I think being nervous is normal. I've always been nervous before I start a new job with new responsibilities. I think reminding yourself that you are capable of doing well in the new position will help.

[AJJKRN]

It's hard to go from competent (and comfortable) to unfamiliar (and uncomfortable).

As a Med-Surg float that dabbles in step-down but also came from an adult trauma-surgical floor, what you're feeling is pretty normal.

Quite like being a new grad, it will probably take up to 1-2 years to feel the similar comfort level you've experienced with your last position.

At least you have experience, mostly know your strengths and weaknesses, and know how to search and utilize your resources.

Their will always be haters as my oldest son says. Fortunately, being an experienced nurse you are in a better position to tolerate, ignore, and/or deal with the challenging people you may come across.

Once you get your footing though you'll be a seamless part of their team no matter which floor you're on and they'll be grateful that you're there (even if they don't always voice it or treat you as so).

Good luck!

[brownbook]

As long as being nervous doesn't overwhelm you so that you can't function, I remind myself that being nervous ( which can still occasionally happen after 30 years of nursing) is a good thing, shows that I'm on my toes, aware that things can go wrong, I'm keeping myself ready for the "what ifs".

[Mavrick, BSN, RN]

Best spin on your being nervous is that it's a sign of the great nurse you are.

Your new employer assessed your background and if you were honest (of course you were) they know you have the basic skills. They are prepared to train you in the specifics of each unit so you will succeed. You have already shown aptitude and if you continue your attitude of being willing to learn and deliver quality care, in a few months you will be a shining example of a wise choice.

Good on you.