Published Aug 31, 2008
JulieRN25
6 Posts
Hi all, I am a new grad and have started orientation in the cardiothoracic ICU at cleveland clinic; however, I am halfway through (week 6 of 12), and I do not feel that I am going to be ready to be on my own even at week 12. My nurse manager and clinical instructor tells me I am doing fine even when I tell them how overwhelmed I am. Does anyone know that if I tell them I'd rather go to a stepdown unit where I'd be more comfortable, will they allow that? They have said that that is possible; however, I'm wondering how that works. Once I finish my 12 weeks, I'd have to stay on the unit for 1 year before I could transfer elsewhere at CCF. Does anyone have any advice or info?? It would be greatly appreciated!! Thank you! :)
lmp91
1 Post
Hello JulieRN 25,
Being a new grad and thinking about being on your own can be overwhelming. Your Nurse Manager and Instructor are there to help guide you during orientation and will know if you are ready at the end of the 12 weeks. Get as much experience as you can while you are in orientation and don't shy away from seeking new learning experiences, asking questions and asking for help. Even when you are out of orientation, you are never ALONE. You will have a lot of senior nurses to go to for assistance and questions. Don't be afraid to ask questions if you are unsure of something.That is the best way to learn. I always used to tell new grads that I was precepting that "no question is a stupid question, it's better to ask than to be unsure of something".
From my 17 years nursing experience, I have seen many new nurses come on board and you are not alone with feeling nervous about coming out of orientation. Every day, maintain a positive attitude and always seek new learning experiences and you will see your knowledge, skills and confidence grow!
CCF is a great place to come to as a new grad. There are a lot of wonderful resources (physicians, fellows and nurses) and learning opportunities. Good Luck as you begin you exciting career of nursing!