Nurse Blake’s 5 Tips for New Grad Nurses
By Nurse Blake
I remember it like it was yesterday - the day I received my nursing degree. Truly, one of the happiest days of my life. If you’re like me, the months following were filled with tons of emotions: excitement, fear, wonder and worry...to name a few! Luckily, four years later, it all worked out and I couldn’t be happier with my decision to become a nurse.
Today, I’m reflecting on what I wish I would have known as a newly graduated nurse and I even talk about by difficult experiences in this podcast interview.
Here’s my best advice for you:
1. Be curious
Just because we finished school doesn't mean we know everything. In nursing, we should be learning something new every day. Be curious and ask questions. Your curiosity can save lives!
2. Breathe
No matter what job you have in nursing, it's going to keep you BUSY! When you go through your day, remind yourself to breathe. Use this time to reflect on a task you completed, a life you just saved, or an emotional moment you had with a patient. We can spend so much time completing tasks, running around, and critically-thinking that we forget to take short moments to breathe and focus on why we became a nurse.
>>Listen to this episode on the Ask Nurse Alice podcast
3. Introduce Yourself
You're going to encounter so many different people on your shift and instead of just saying hello, introduce yourself. This will enhance communication on your unit and will build a healthier work environment.
4. Be Involved
Nurses have the power to really make a positive impact on how healthcare is delivered in our communities. Participate in your unit practice council, join a professional nursing organization, and volunteer in your community. We can be patient advocates on and off the clock.
5. Be Kind to Yourself
We put so much effort (physically, mentally, and emotionally) caring for others that sometimes we forget to care for ourselves. We must show ourselves the same compassion, kindness, and respect that we show our patients and their families. If we aren't 100%, we can't care for others 100%. Take time to relax and re-energize! So yes, it's totally OK to take your lunch break and use your PTO to go on vacation.
As a fellow nurse, know that I'm here for you and I support your nursing journey! It's going to be one crazy ride but it's so worth it. As other nurses follow in your footsteps be sure to inspire, motivate, and help them since we are all in this together!
I graduated 4 years ago today and am honored to be in the nursing profession with you.
Next Up: 5 Types Of Nursing Students
