THICK SKIN

twinmommy+2, ADN, BSN, MSN · Jul 31, 2016

Its something that is grown with time. Also with the realization that nothing anybody does on the floor is personal (well almost nothing).

nutella, MSN, RN · Jul 31, 2016

As a new grad on the floor how does one grow thick skin?

are you hypersensitive or just very reactive or not enough social skills?

You need to realize that nursing is a stressful job. Most people are not the best when they under stress and that includes all members of the team. There are also the unwritten rules - when you come to the floor as a new graduate and the CNA has been on the floor for years or decades - you are not going to win a flower pot by pointing out that you are the nurse. Strive for collaboration and be humble - you can learn from everybody including CNA and house keeping, food services and so on.

Other nurses can be abrasive - again - the unwritten rules. It can be hard to ignore comments or whispering or such but to be honest - you are there to work and not to make friends for life.

Do not get into a power struggle - you are not going to win.

You cannot take everything very personal or be offended by everything and anything. Of course if there are legit concerns speak up and talk to your preceptor/educator/ manager. But it is really a process to fit into the team. It seems that nurses who work hard, stay out of gossip, and genuinely respect all people the work with do best.

It is the small things that will make your day better. Take the time to talk to the CNA about the patient assignment but not in a way that makes them feel like they are less - they fulfill a very important role and need to be treated like that. Say thank you when you get good help from other people. Set expectation but at the same time stay humble. Don't say "check the blood sugar before meals" - instead say "Mr.X is very sensitive with his blood sugar - could you do me a favor and check his blood sugar before meals and report them to me please so I can give him insulin?" give CNAs a hand - when they are sticking the head out of the door to boost somebody up smile and offer help.

I am not a direct care nurse but when I am on the floor and somebody needs an assist to boost I go in and do it.

If you manage to get along, there will be less conflict, less emotional upset and your skin - even though not as thick - may be thick enough.