Starting my first job

[Samantha]

I am preparing to start my very first job in a busy level one pediatric trauma center and ED. I was very lucky to get the job, they haven't hired a new grad in four years. Although I am soooo aware I have a ton to learn, I am psyched to start there. As a new grad, I realize I may receive some negative comments from more experienced RN's. I am afraid they will feel like I don't have a right to be there right out of school. I am as experienced as a new grad comes and very outgoing, so if anyone has any advice for me, or just thoughts, I'd love to hear them.., good or bad.

Thanks

[Stormy]

Best of luck in your new job, Samantha! The only advice I have for you, is to ask questions and never pretend to know something if you don't. My hat is off to you for doing the pediatric thing. Emergency care is one thing, peds is an additional challenge. I admire those who are comfortable with pediatric care. Hope you enjoy your new position!

[CEN35]

with stormy.........

you'll be fine I did it as a new grad........and there was a lot of frustration, and stress the 1st 6-10 months but you can do it.

me

[pjsleepy, BSN]

Congratulations Samantha! I started as a new grad in a ER/Level II Trauma Center a little over a year ago. This past year has been a challenge to say the least! There were many days that I was so frustrated I didn't care if I ever went back. Unfortunately many of my classmates felt the same way. Many were so overwhelmed they were in tears nightly questioning their career choice. Now, a year later, most of us have prevailed. Here are some things that I have personally learned in the ER that may be of use to you.

1.) I agree with Stormy. Don't ever be afraid to ask questions. No matter how dumb they might seem, no matter how many times you may forget and have to ask again.

2.) A-B-C's!!!!!!

3.) Don't be afraid to admit if you have made a mistake.

4.) After each new "first" (ie. your first critical trauma, your first case of child abuse, your first pediatric code) that is one less "first" you have to encounter. Granted, none are the same, you still will feel a little more at ease the next time you encounter one.

5.) Never stop learning. My nursing textbooks are getting much more use now than they ever did in college! Because now I have patients that I can actually relate the readings to. Medications, procedures, and courses of treatment make much more sense to me now that I have real-life scenarios I can compare them with.

You are right. There probably will be some nurses who feel you don't belong there. I was lucky to have a WONDERFUL group of nurses and doctors to start with. You will have to prove yourself to them, but I think that experienced nurses who start in a new department have to prove themselves as well.

I hope this has helped. Let me know if you have any questions! Good luck! :)