LindaleeRN

Think of your graduation from nursing school as your birthday. Your nursing life is just beginning when you granduate. That's when the REAL learning begins! As for me, after spending a year on a general MED-SURG floor, I transferred to an IV team for a year. Then, I went to ICU. ICU was where I really learned what being a nurse was all about. I worked with some amazing nurses who taught me so much. Ditto about the physicians, Resp Therapists and the whole host of others who shared their knowledge with me. In the beginning, I spent as much time (and, often stayed after my shift) as I could soaking up the experiences and learning opportunities. Yes, it's tiring...but oh so rewarding! You will find a way to balance your work life and your personal life. For me, changing from 8 hour shifts to 12 hours shifts was such a bonus. 2 extra days off per week was so helpful to a young single mom. More time with my son, more time to be his mommy. Hang in there...the best is about to start!!! :-)