su_z1010

I have read a few posts about being very nervous your first time working with patients in a hospital. My experience has been in skilled nursing homes where the majority of the residents were not alert, plus I have been out of the medical field for several years. I thought I would jump right in to hospital work, but I am nervous as all get out. This is my first term, and I have been in the med-surg unit for two days. The first day I did a scavenger hunt to find supplies, charts, etc. The second day I shadowed a nurse and she basically had me go fetch things for her and for her patients. Even this little patient contact had my head spinning! I don't know why I am so nervous, but my anxiety is really severe. I am a little socially anxious normally, but nothing like this. I am literally shaking, and about to throw up at the thought of working with a patient this week. I get in fight or flight mode, and I feel like I want to run out the door! I just want to know if anyone has any tips on how to get comfortable with a patient. I really could use any advice you have to offer!

Jamie, I don't know if this helps you or not, but I too am in my first semester and am oh sooo nervous myself. Our class started out in med-surg, but I have yet to touch a patient. So far I have just been "go-for" for the nurse I was shadowing. If I find a technique that helps me get over the jitters I will gladly share it with you. Until then, good luck!

That was wonderful and insightful. Sounds like you have great judgement. I respect that a lot.

Just Curious, Have any of you RNs ever went against your hospital's policy, possibly risking getting written up, for the benefit of a patient. If so, what was it you did, and would you do it again if the same situation arose? Suzey;)

I just wanted to mention, I have a padded swimsuit, yes they make them, and it is the only reason I can go swimming in anything less than a t-shirt.

I just wanted to add that I have a little philosophical reason for not getting them also. I would like to be an example to young girls that your body is beautiful NO MATTER WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE!!! I was teased horribly in grade school, when I was really vulnerable and it really had a huge impact on me. Boys can be so cruel!!! I bawled every day about it and still obsess about it to this day. I pray this does not happen to my girls I would be furious.:angryfire

In my experience, the implants are not attractive on older people. That's why I am not getting them myself. I am about a AA, and always wear a padded or lined bra. I have heard of a new technique called the Brava Vacuum Bra, it supposedly increases your size naturally. I am planning on consulting with a plastic surgeon as soon as I get the money saved up. I will keep you posted with some more information.