Your role as a new nurse is as exciting as it is overwhelming. There’s so much to learn about your new nursing role, and that alone can cause some anxiety. But, you must remember that every nurse, even those “super-nurses” with years of experience, began their career right where you are now.
Of course, you’re going to face some challenges in your new nursing role. Any professional beginning a new career faces challenges in acclimating. And every healthcare organization has its way of doing things. However, patient care is always at the center of your work as a nurse, and you certainly know how to care for your patients.
6 Tips For a Smooth Transition into Your New Nursing Role
You’re probably pretty thrilled to finally be fulfilling your dreams of a nursing career, but you’d like your transition to be smooth. We want the best for you, and we’re here to help. Here are some tips that will ease your transition into your new nursing role.
1. Ask the Questions
No matter how confident your coworkers seem, nobody knows it all. Every facility, from hospitals to skilled nursing centers, has its particular approach to day-to-day operations. And as a nurse, you are constantly learning as medicine is constantly evolving. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Refer to those around you: your fellow nurses and teammates, CNAs, LPNs, physical and occupational therapists, dietitians, and administrative staff. No matter your question or concern, someone there will have an answer, or at least point you in the right direction.
2. Get Comfortable with Your Team Members
As you transition into your new nursing role, you will be the “newbie”. But guess what? Your coworkers have all been the “newbie” themselves at one time. Reach out and build connections with your teammates. They will be more than happy to help you make a smooth transition.
It’s always helpful to hear others’ experiences and ask their opinions and advice for success in the organization. And your fellow nurses are the only ones who truly understand the unique stress you go through. Having a positive relationship with your coworkers promotes a feeling of community, and that’s always a good thing.
3. Seek Out Resources
Find who you can go to for assistance with tasks, getting answers to your questions, understanding protocols and procedures, dealing with workplace issues, and even helping you locate supplies. These coworkers are worth their weight in gold. In addition to finding the right coworker for your concern, always have a reference guide handy, or know where to find one. There are several apps available that address specific needs. Ask your coworkers which ones they use.
4. Don’t Take Things Personally
As a nurse, you will often be the target of angry patients or their families. Doctors often make comments that seem harsh. Even your fellow nurses can be a bit testy if they’ve had a difficult or long shift. These can certainly be confidence killers and hurt your feelings, especially when you’ve had a long or difficult shift. Please don’t take these things personally. More often than not, the issue is with them and not you. Try to let the harsh remarks or anger roll off your back. Don’t stew in your feelings too long, and certainly, if these situations continue, speak to your supervisor.
5. Master the Art of Communication
Healthcare facilities are often fast-paced and busy places. Any clinical setting relies on excellent communication among its staff. This is essential for the safety of patients and nurses. By learning to communicate effectively, you ensure that the proper information has been imparted. When the next nurse comes in for their shift, take a quiet moment to explain anything you need to and make sure they understand.
Avoid any miscommunications with patients and their families by listening more and assuming less. Ask questions to make sure you understand what they are trying to communicate to you. When communicating back to them, do so in a way that they understand.
6. Let Go of Perfection
As a nurse, you must focus on progress and let go of perfection. Go at your own pace as you transition into your new nursing role. You have much to learn, so don’t feel “less than” if you can’t keep up with your coworkers. Be realistic about your career goals and, above all else, be gentle with yourself. Mistakes will happen. They happen to every nurse at one time or another. Learn from them, then move on. Experience is often the best teacher. That’s progress.
How You Can Thrive in Your New Nursing Role
Whether you’re about to graduate from nursing school, are a recent grad, or you’ve completed your CNA or LPN training, venturing into your new nursing role is the first step in a wonderfully fulfilling career. For ways in which we can help you be the best nurse you can be, please contact BOS Medical Staffing.
