EP 1: Myth And Tips For New Graduate Nurses

March 17, 2019

 

 Show Notes

Today we will talk about the experience as a new nurse, myths about new grads, and tips to make the most out of your first year as a new nurse.

The four nurse myths: 

1. Where you start is where you end up, your interests will stay the same. 

• Fear of changing jobs (growth happens exponential on the other side of comfort) 
• Too comfortable to change

2. Learning stops once you graduate

• Continue education. Healthcare is always changing. Going back to school after becoming an RN. 
• Policies and procedures change 
• Every situation is different just like giving one certain medication doses might have one patient differently compared to the other.    

3. You will be on your own

• Stop the float or sink mentality. Overthinking the situation
• Every unit is different, but becoming a nurse we have that nurture mentality we want to help. 
• Don't be scared to ask a question instead of trying to find the answer yourself. 
• You should bounce off ideas of other nurses and both nurses can share a perspective which will create better care. 

4. Nurses run Doctor’s errands

• Be persistent if doctors get lazy, for example, forget to do doctor to doctor consults. 
• Most of the time you're asking for orders since you're in direct contact with the patient. 

Tips for new graduate nurses 

• The power of asking nurses. Collaborate work is always better. There Is No Such Thing As A “Stupid” Question. Every patient, every situation is different, even if they have the same illness.

• Self-Care Is not an option. It’s A Necessity. Burn out can happen quicker than you think. Take a mini-break if you can to feel refreshed, to get more clear and focused. We don't prioritize breaks as a culture in nursing, especially on nights, we even eat on the unit.  

• Be assertive. Patients can sense your confidence, and you’ll help them feel trust and safe being in your company. Confidence builds trust. 
• Learn to admit your mistakes. YOU WILL MAKE MISTAKES. Bigger problems may arise in the end. You colleagues will understand if you admit your mistake, and they will help you solve it.
• Task management. It will make your shift easier. Get a good report sheet that you can utilize and that will be like your fall back sheet if anything emergently arises. Post it notes for reminders. Know when your drips will run low to order ahead of time. 
• Proper SBAR. Don't beat the bush. You know what is going on more than the physician, ask for what you want. Be straight forward, only include details that will pertain to the situation. 

 

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