Tips for New Nurses: 5 Ways to Thrive In Your First Job
After finishing your studies with flying colors, here now comes another exciting moment in your life – landing your first nursing job. Congratulations!
Forget about the butterflies playing in your stomach. Here are few pointers you should keep in mind to get you started on the right foot.
Choose your first job wisely.
Don't just apply to jobs out of your desire to work immediately. Your first job will have a huge impact in your future career. Consider asking advice of seasoned nurses to help guide you through your journey.
Accept your novice status and the work that comes with it.
Your first job may not your dream job. And to be able to get there, you might have to start doing something else before jumping into a permanent nursing position. Be flexible and generous. Help co-nurses when you can, and be humble enough to accept and ask for assistance when you need it too.
Ask.
Do not be afraid to ask questions. It is the simplest way to learn. And also, respect what your co-workers know and has accomplished. Listen and obey.
Don't rush.
Being a newbie, there will be times you'll go slow, disorganized, and lost. Don't get frustrated when things are not going the way you think they should. You will develop your own system eventually.
Take care of yourself.
Make sure that you take some time out for yourself. Remember, there is more to life than work. Spend your rest days well like doing something you love or spending it with your family. Enjoy your free time. Avoid talking and thinking about work when you are not at work. Try not to take too much overtime, too.
Being a new nurse is exciting. However, it can also be scary as you have to learn to cope with the ups and downs that occur in the healthcare profession. Befriend fellow beginners and connect with experienced nurses. Lastly, be positive that one day, you'll finally find your niche.
Published at: 05/16/2015
