I thought that this would be interesting. As we have new graduates beginning to orient in our respective units, do any of you have any fool-proof pieces of advice for them? If you could only give them 1 "rule" to always obey as a nurse, what would it be??
Actually, I have 2 that stand out in my mind.
#1- Always go with your gut feeling. Minor and major hunches alike. For example, if you have a hunch that you need to check on a patient, check their BP again, etc., then do it. I have had many instances in which I think of something that I need to do, for whatever reason don't do it, then end up wishing that I had.
#2- Always take at least one more wash-cloth than you think you're going to need!! (This also applies to other supplies as well).
C'mon. I know all of you guys can add to this list!
My biggest piece of advice to newbies! CYA--Cover Your A$$ when charting. Document everything because if you don't then it will surely come back to haunt you.
Always smile! Even if you don't feel like it, try it and it'll make you feel better. This is a proven fact! Smiling helps to release endorphins! :):):)
All I can say is never take what your co-workers say personally. If they say anything rude, obnoxious, callus, or mean to you - NEVER TAKE IT PERSONALLY...
When you are thinking about what they said you loss sight of your pts... and hurting yourself...
1> close mouth, open eyes and ears, engage mind. Everything will work better
2> Always look at your patient first before you look at your monitors. The patient will tell you much more.
3> separate home and work. Dont bring problems to work, you have enough to deal with there. Dont take work home, your family needs you not your work problems
live4today, RN
5,099 Posts
GREAT QUOTE! LOTS OF TRUTH! SHOULD BE PRACTICED MORE TODAY! :)
My most valuable piece of advice is: DON'T RAIN ON MY PARADE!
:chuckle :kiss