My Tips for New Nurses Vol 1.

 Nursing Insights: A Decade of Trial and Error

Introduction

As a seasoned nurse reflecting on my past 10 years of experience, I would like to share my opinions and insights, hoping to provide guidance and support for those navigating the complexities of the nursing profession. These insights are based on personal experiences, highlighting the importance of surviving the initial shock, finding a mentor, dealing with difficult preceptors, advocating for oneself during orientation, and continuously learning from patient experiences.

1. Surviving Post-Nursing School Shock:

Starting a nursing career can be overwhelming, as the transition from theory to practice may feel like a daunting task. It is normal to experience feelings of inadequacy during this period. However, it is essential to remember that nursing school cannot fully prepare you for the challenges of your first nursing job. The initial shock is temporary, and with time, you will gain confidence and competence. Remember to embrace the versatility that nursing offers, as finding your niche takes time and exploration.

2. Finding a Mentor:

Seeking a mentor who can guide, support, and challenge you is crucial in your professional development. A mentor should be someone willing to listen, empathize, offer constructive feedback, and provide honest guidance. This person can introduce you to hospital policies, suggest strategies for effective communication, and share valuable information about the nursing staff. 

Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow under their mentorship. This person is not just a seasoned nurse who you can ask questions here and there. This person is your shoulder to cry on, the person that will hold you down and pull you aside to tell you things that will save your ass, keep your patient safe, and will always make time to keep you from drowning. Over 10 years later I still remember my first mentor may she rest in peace. My first week in ICU, an ICU that did not take new graduate nurses but I was given a chance. My mother had worked in that very ICU for 20 plus years, so I am forever thankful for that opportunity. Maybe my mentor knew the odd were stacked against me, I was a deer in headlights. I was petrified every shift. 

My mentor to this day gave me skills I still use to this day. She instilled in me Good habits that I still practice. She was hard on me but never judged me, embraced me with a hug when I lost my first patient. Always came to my rescue when I was drowning. Included me in every meeting and made sure I was introduced to every staff in that hospital. I will never forget her and I will never forget "No hanging IVs, and Keep Endotracheal Inline suction at the top of the bed so the patients don't self extubate". " Never walk past an alarm going off, take a glance at your patient". Just a few of the many habits I took from my very first mentor. You will find your mentor, I promise you...

3. Dealing with Difficult Preceptors:

During your orientation, it is essential to accept that not all preceptors will have the patience or teaching style that suits you. Some experiences will be positive, while others may be challenging. Regardless, try to learn from every encounter. Observe and adopt good habits, and if you encounter a preceptor who is unhelpful or rude, do not hesitate to address the issue with your manager. Remember, orientation is a period for you to learn and be supported, so don't let anyone take advantage of or discourage you. I cant tell you how many times I was too shy, timid, and introverted to take myself out of these uncomfortable positions. It made me hate Nursing. I felt like quitting.  Don't let anyone steal your New Grad, Recent NCLEX killer High. You are a Rockstar!!

It is imperative to advocate for yourself during your orientation period. If you find that your assigned preceptor is not providing you with appropriate guidance or making you feel uncomfortable, don't hesitate to approach your manager about it. Your voice matters, and addressing the issue sooner rather than later can save you from unnecessary stress and wasted time. Remember, you deserve a positive learning experience.

4. Continuously Learning from Patient Experiences:

As you progress in your nursing career, you will begin to recognize patterns in patient presentations and common pathologies. This familiarity will enhance your ability to manage patient care effectively. Invest time in studying the mechanisms of medications, understand the rationale behind different treatment approaches, and embrace the knowledge your patients offer. Treat each day of orientation as an opportunity to apply and expand your academic knowledge, strengthening your clinical skills. Give yourself time. There will come a point in your career when things will just click.  

In ICU for example, treating patients in DKA will feel like absolute hell. Over time, I enjoyed these cases because from onset to discharge to stepdown you will see the fruits of your labor. After a few months everything clicked. I understood why closing the anion gap is so important, Why isotonic hydration is preferred, why an insulin drip is initiated.  I understood why I'm giving Potassium and Magnesium, and why I'm running every hour to stick my patients finger for a FS. It all clicked,  everything I learned in Pathology and Pharmacology made sense. It all will click and you will be so proud of yourself.  

5. Learn from What you see:

Lets be Real nursing school will not make you an expert in making a bed. It sure as hell wont prepare you for changing a bed with a patient that cant move, attached to 5 drips, and a ventilator screaming at you. I learned and honed my bedside care from the CNAs. They are absolutely amazing. Work with them, treat them with respect, even though sometimes they will hate you for bothering them.  There is always one Nursing Assistant that is the OG of all Nursing assistants. He or She will leave you speechless. Learn how to be efficient, safe, and empathetic . These patient are in pain, and are vulnerable. Treat each patient like a family member. 

Conclusion

Nursing is a unique profession that requires continuous growth and adaptation. Surviving the initial shock, finding a mentor, dealing with difficult preceptors, advocating for yourself during orientation, and learning from patient experiences are critical aspects of your professional development. Remember that these insights are based on personal experiences, but they are intended to provide guidance and support. Embrace the challenges, learn from your mistakes, and always strive for improvement in your nursing practice.