preceptors, I need your wisdom >>>

Trauma Columnist · Jul 8, 2004

I'm sure you will do fine! Relax, smile, ask questions and do your best...you'll do just great! Have fun!

zambezi, BSN, RN · Jul 8, 2004

I definately agree with what Trauma has suggested. You will probably feel nervous--and that is normal! Take the first day to get acquainted with your preceptor, the unit, paperwork, MARs/pharmacy stuff, where crash carts, code buttons (or how to call a code), policy and procedure stuff is located.. other staff etc (if you haven't been there before). You will probably have a checklist of certain things that you need to do before your orientation is over--look over that and start working on what you don't know. Ask lots of questions and take that first day just to figure out what the "typical day" might entail. Most of all have fun! YOu will do great...

NeuroICURN · Jul 8, 2004

My only advice: Don't be afraid to ask questions! We know you don't know everything and no one expects you to!

jnette, ASN, EMT-I · Jul 8, 2004

Just be yourself, Happy. Be yourself.

The true you will show through even your nervousness. Don't expect to remember every little thing you'r shown tomorrow, the next day, or even the next few weeks ! Make mental notes, even litte written notes to yourself IF you get a minute or two somewhere in the day.. if not, do this when you get home, then organize your little memos during the week at home.

Be HONEST about what you know, don't know, and WANT to know. Show genuine interest (as I know you will) when learning something new.

You'll be GREAT !!! And keep that beautiful smile, no matter what !

J Lynn · Jul 8, 2004

one day soon it will be "my" first day on the job with a preceptor and i know i'll be just as nervous as you are right now. let us know how it goes. better yet, keep a journal (starting today) about how you feel and your experences. that way, you can look back on it b/c you'll never have a first day as an rn again.

you'll do wonderfully!!!!

here are some threads you might be interested in reading about organizing your day. i keep these in my subscribed folders.

share some of your organization tips - allnurses.com - nursing discussion boar

survival tips for first year nurses - allnurses.com - nursing discussion board

what are your routines like on a medsurg unit - allnurses.com - nursing discus

organizational tips - allnurses.com - nursing discussion board for nurses

happystudent, RN · Jul 8, 2004

thanks for the advice :chuckle I have those pesky butterflies in my belly.

Jnette, you mentioned taking notes, do you think its a good idea to carry a little note pad?

I know there is going to be alot of info thrown at me so I thought that might be helpful.

But at the same time, I don't want to get myself in a tizzy over every detail.

Whats realistic? :chuckle

jnette, ASN, EMT-I · Jul 9, 2004

thanks for the advice :chuckle I have those pesky butterflies in my belly.
Jnette, you mentioned taking notes, do you think its a good idea to carry a little note pad?
I know there is going to be alot of info thrown at me so I thought that might be helpful.
But at the same time, I don't want to get myself in a tizzy over every detail.
Whats realistic? :chuckle

If it was ME.. yes, I would...(take a small notepad)... 'cuz I'm anal. :rotfl:

But you know how you retain things best. Even if you just jot down the really important stuff ... then go over it when you get home to refresh your memory.

But like I said.. that's just me. Either way, we have faith in you, and know you'll do just FINE !

We're here for you, so feel free to come screaming at any time ! :chuckle

(((HUGS)))

suzanne4, RN · Jul 9, 2004

If you are starting at a hospital, chances are that your first days of orientation will be spent in a big orientation with other nurses just starting, as well as other new employees. That is when you will go over all of the needed inservices, such as fire and safety, etc. Also take your medication exam, and what ever else they want you to do.

Just go in with an open mind, and you will do just fine. Remember that your learning curve is just beginning now..............things will be quite different from when you were still a student. What type of unit have you been assigned to?

:)

hypnotic_nurse · Jul 9, 2004

I always find that a cheerful attitude goes a looooong way. Have fun!

reyna · Jul 10, 2004

NEVER pretend you know everything!

Farkinott, RN · Jul 10, 2004

Observe, observe, observe.

Suss out the dynamics of your workplace (over a period of weeks) and this will help you know who to go to with any problems with other staff or clinical issues. Don't fret that you don't know because by studying so hard and passing your assessments you have proven worthy of the job. You will learn whatever yo uneed to know over time.

Congratulations and Good luck in your new role.