Will it get better???

I think you are finally getting over that new grad mentality, and realize what you don't know! That is an important milestone in a nursing career! That first year or so, you are still so new, you don't always realize how scary this job is. You have a tremendous responsibility for someone's care.

These next few years will be filled with some anxiety as you realize how much you still need to learn, but you will also grow more confident in what you do know! Don't be afraid to rely on others around you to help you learn.

You are finally to the point where you can absorb new concepts, meds, procedures. Now is the time to branch out a little. If you have not already taken TNCC, ENPC, PALS, ACLS, etc. you should think about it. Enroll in some of your hospital's online or class room learning classes on EKG's, wound care, etc. if you can.

Don't worry about relying on the docs at bedside for critical patients. The nurses on the floors without the docs are generally working with patients who have already been diagnosed, stabilized and treatment plans are already implemented. Yes, they can still go bad, but that is where rapid response teams, ICU staff, etc. come into play.

Take every advantage to learn that you can. As you take more critical patients, write down things you may be unfamiliar with. Discuss the vents with your respiratory therapists. As you stock rooms, ask more experienced nurses to show you what is needed for central lines, art lines, pacing, cardioverting, etc.

I can't address the hypochondria, but you are exposed to bad stuff in the ED and there is no way around it. Just protect yourself the best you can. Use universal precautions with everyone, and extra precautions with those you know have the bad bugs.

Good luck to you in your quest for knowledge and as you find your comfort zone. It takes a while, give yourself that time to grow and learn.

Thank you so much for your response...it is really reassuring!

OMG...you should have seen me, a nurse with 15 yrs experience inc 13 years ICU, my first few months in the ED. I was scared to death, not of the trauma pts or vents, or central lines but pelvic exams, splints and starting IVs(did not start too many IVs in ICU).

I think you are expecting too much of yourself too soon. PP gave some great advice.

Ask your more experienced staff as much as you can and defintely catch up on some courses. TNCC is especially good.

Good luck.

PS I just emmigrated and am now working in the ED in another hemisphere, like being a new grad all over again!!!!

You've received some excellent advice so far.

I got over my lack of knowledge and comfort by actively seeking out those patients that terrified me. For me, it was pediatric patients. The more experience you get under your belt, the more comfortable you'll feel. I think with time, exposure, additional classes and researching subjects you come across, you'll get to that comfort level.

We've all been where you are now. I'll think you'll do fine.