tips for a new nurse like me

tiffanycmt · May 25, 2005

in my opinion we all have or will make errors. The most important thing is just to ask questions if your unsure of something. i practice check, check and recheck better safe then sorry. I'm sure you will do great and best of luck to you God Bless tiffany

Brotherbob, BSN, RN · May 25, 2005

The first year is a challenge, eat well, get sleep and exercise, it will keep your head cool. On my first job I was constantly stressed out trying to do everything myself, when I started to rely more on my coworkers I became a much better nurse.

Take care

Laurlaur · May 25, 2005

Always always always check if you are not sure of something, never be afraid to say "i don't know" to anyone, doctors, patients, anyone. Even if you think you will look silly. Never stop learning, don't be too hard on yourself..I've only be qualified about 9 months, and I "beat myself up" constantly about what I don't know..but then have to reassure myself that I'm only just starting out and scratching the surface! Be open to suggestions and try out all new skills that you don't yet have, don't be afraid to ask for supervision even though you are now qualified! Hope this helps.....

bobnurse · May 25, 2005

Dont take shortcuts and dont learn them.....a major cause of error is due to taking shortcuts in your practice, whether your doing a dressing change or giving meds....Do things properly, and you'll be ok.

redwinggirlie · May 26, 2005

Practice good time management. If you are in the middle of something and you get called to do something else, try to finish that task first then go. Think ahead at the start of your shift. If you know a patient is on fluids, try to have one handy to replehish, or, just check the amount that is left when you come on and calculate when you will have to replace it. Then, coordinate that time with other tasks you can do at the same time while in the room.

Label, date and time all of your IV's and dressing changes.

Ask, ask and ask. We all do and will for as long as we are nurses.

Be well!

RN@34 · May 26, 2005

I just graduated on May 17th and will start work on June 20th. I know I will be a nervous wreck. Luckily the hospital I will work at offers an internship program. I will be able to work directly under a seasoned RN during my first 12 weeks. Also with this program, we get 3 credit hours toward our next degree.

I wish you the best of luck. Also remember, nursing school teaches the basics-experience teaches the rest!!

Melissa :)

eezee · May 26, 2005

I really, really, really appreciate everything you've said!! I'm so glad we have this site!! It made me somehow feel more confident in facing this new task in my life!!! & it also made me feel that "hey I am not alone!& I am not the only one who's experiencing this!" I really got inspired! Thanks so much!!!! :)

stidget99 · May 26, 2005

Watch the more seasoned nurses. Notice what you see as being good practice AND bad practice from everyone. Then...form your own personal style using the good points from everyone. This will take several months before you are able to form some semblance of your "own style" that you are comfortable with.

Other tips:

1. Organization.

2. Never be afraid to say "I don't know".

3. Always ask questions.

4. Triple check meds or anything else that can't be "taken back".

5. Know that you ABSOLUTELY WILL make errors. The key is to learn from them.

6. Never be afraid to consult co-workers if unsure about anything.

7. Keep things in perspective.