Tips and Tools for New Nurses
Adjusting to a new career is a significant step, and in nursing, the transition is unique. Unlike many other professions, new nurses often find themselves immediately immersed in the demanding hospital environment. Long shifts, dynamic schedules, and the constant responsibility of patient care can feel overwhelming. But here’s the good news: you’re not alone. We understand the challenges you face, and we’re dedicated to ensuring you feel prepared, confident, and supported as you embark on this vital career. Think of us as being right there with you, saying, “We got you.” With insights and resources focused on your success, safety, and well-being, we aim to make your transition a smooth and positive one. This blog will guide you through what to expect in your first month, offering crucial success strategies, essential tools for your initial days, vital self-care advice, and key professional development resources. Propelus – and our suite of solutions (CE Broker, EverCheck, and our Data Solutions) – is here to help you confidently move from the classroom to making a real difference in patient care. What New Nurses Bring to the Team Your nursing education and clinical rotations have laid a strong foundation, providing you with practical experience in the hospital setting and patient care. These experiences are invaluable as you begin your career. The pace at which your responsibilities grow will depend on the healthcare facility’s needs and structure. Ideally, your first week will involve crucial onboarding processes, including understanding policies and procedures. Many organizations offer a nursing orientation to help you acclimate to their specific environment. This often includes in-depth training on electronic health records and opportunities to practice using the system. You’ll likely be paired with a mentor or preceptor – someone dedicated to supporting you and answering your questions during this initial phase. As your first month progresses, those initial nerves should begin to ease, and you’ll develop the confidence to take on more independent responsibilities. From monitoring vital signs and assessing patient conditions to administering medications, documenting care accurately, communicating effectively with the healthcare team, and providing essential patient support, you are equipped to make a meaningful impact. We’re here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you feel secure and ready. 6 Keys to Thriving as a New Nurse The fast-paced and demanding nature of nursing is well-known. Fortunately, these strategies can help you not just survive but thrive as you begin your professional journey. We’re in your corner, offering these tips to help you navigate this new chapter. 1. Build Connections Through Respect and Professionalism Every successful healthcare team relies on strong communication and positive relationships. As a new nurse, your daily interactions will involve a diverse group of professionals. Introducing yourself clearly, remembering names, and offering a respectful and professional demeanor are fundamental to building trust and rapport. These connections will not only make your transition smoother but also contribute to a more supportive patient care environment. We believe in the power of connection, and we know you’ll build strong ones. 2. Lean on Experienced Guidance for Support and Growth Finding a mentor early in your career is invaluable. An experienced nurse can offer practical advice, share insights into best practices, help you navigate challenging situations, and guide your professional growth. This mentorship can provide crucial support in balancing your personal and professional life while achieving your career aspirations. Seek out a mentor who understands the demands and rewards of nursing – someone who’s been there and can offer a guiding hand. 3. Prioritize Clarity for Optimal Patient Care Asking questions is not a sign of inexperience; it demonstrates a commitment to providing safe and effective care. In healthcare, clarity is paramount. Never hesitate to ask for clarification on procedures, medication administration, or any aspect of patient care you are unsure about. This proactive approach is crucial for preventing errors and ensuring the best possible outcomes for your patients. We’re here to say, it’s okay to ask – it shows you care. 4. Double-Check Everything for Accuracy and Confidence In the healthcare setting, accuracy is non-negotiable. From documenting vital signs to administering medications, double-checking all information is essential for patient safety. Remember that hospital policies and procedures can vary, so always verify information to prevent inconsistencies and potential errors. This meticulous approach will build your confidence and ensure you’re providing the best possible care. 5. Master Time Management for Efficient and Focused Care Delivery Effective time management and task prioritization are critical in the busy healthcare environment. As you manage multiple patients, organizing tasks based on urgency and importance is vital. Prioritizing patients with immediate needs and time-sensitive tasks ensures that all patients receive timely and appropriate care. Efficient time management will help you feel more in control and less overwhelmed. 6. Invest in Continuous Learning and Maintain Your Credentials Your nursing education doesn’t end with graduation. The healthcare field is constantly evolving, with new research, technologies, and best practices emerging. Pursuing specializations and earning certifications demonstrates your dedication to excellence and your commitment to providing the highest quality care. Remember to stay proactive in maintaining these credentials to ensure ongoing growth and competence. CE Broker by Propelus, our compliance management platform, can help. CE Broker simplifies continuing education (CE) tracking and management for licensed professionals, as well as offers personalized and automated solutions for monitoring renewal requirements, completing courses, and reaching compliance with confidence. In addition to providing essential CE courses, CE Broker’s Credential Tracker allows professionals to stay on top of their certification without the stress of manual tracking or missed renewal deadlines. EverCheck and our Data Solutions also verify and manage a wide range of certifications to healthcare organizations ensure their nursing teams are prepared. 5 Essential Tools for Your First Day: Prepared for Success Comfortable, Slip-Resistant Shoes Long shifts demand comfortable and supportive footwear. Investing in slip-resistant shoes is crucial for your well-being, reducing fatigue and the risk of accidents. Look for durable and
Celebrating Student Nurse Day: Honoring the Future of Healthcare
A time to acknowledge and honor our future nurses Student Nurse Day is a perfect opportunity to recognize the dedication of those pursuing a career in nursing. Since registered nurses (RNs) undergo four years of nursing school to obtain their bachelor’s degree, it is meaningful to celebrate student nurses’ hard work and accomplishments. At Propelus, our mission is to power professionals throughout their careers, especially our future nurses. We understand the importance of supporting student nurses as they navigate their education and transition into their careers. In this blog, we’ll provide insights into the life of a student nurse, including their role in the healthcare system, the challenges they may face, their tech-driven learning environments, and ways you can support the student nurses involved with your organization on Student Nurse Day. The Role of Student Nurses in Healthcare Student nurses represent the future workforce. Despite sometimes not receiving as much credit as they deserve, their contributions are essential for improving patient care and advancing the nursing profession. Their dedication and hard work are critical components of the healthcare team, without which the system would struggle to function. Let’s take a closer look into some of the responsibilities of student nurses: Patient assignments Administering medications Performing a head-to-toe assessments Obtaining vital signs Bathing and dressing patients Feeding patients Charting all patient’s medical records Assisting with procedures Communicating with patients and family members Challenges Faced by Student Nurses Nursing school presents unique challenges due to the demanding nature of the nursing profession. According to the National League for Nursing, 20% of nursing students drop out, highlighting the program’s intensity. Unlike many other fields of study, student nurses face the rigorous challenges of clinical trials and real-life scenarios before graduating. They face a lot of pressure and expectations to perform at a high level. From juggling their academic load to the challenges of clinical rotations, all while dealing with financial burdens, it’s no wonder that student nurses experience a lot of stress. While these challenges can sometimes feel overbearing, they help prepare student nurses for their responsibilities when they become nurses. Let’s explore the three main areas where student nurses face these challenges in more detail. 1. Academic Challenges Academic challenges are a huge aspect of the student nursing journey. Employers expect student nurses to retain significant information within a short period. Their work requires a keen attention to detail, given its hands-on nature. From mastering procedures like starting an IV and inserting a catheter to conducting accurate patient assessments, they expect to excel in numerous areas simultaneously. Additionally, they must comprehend complex subjects like anatomy, physiology, clinical mathematics, and various medications’ names, actions, and side effects. Balancing each of these learning objectives, along with the curriculum and exams, creates a hefty workload on student nurses. 2. Clinical Challenges Nursing education blends intensive theoretical instruction in the classroom with extensive practical training in clinical settings. Unlike traditional classroom learning, clinical training offers nursing students opportunities for hands-on learning through exposure and application. The knowledge and principles learned early in nursing school are implemented to develop the mental, psychological, and psychomotor skills required for patient care (Jamshidi, Molazem, Sharif, Torabizadeh, and Kalyani). This dynamic learning environment is heavily focused on practical experience and comes with great stress and pressure. Frequently, students feel overwhelmed when demonstrating new responsibilities in front of their nursing instructors and peers during clinical rotations. The demands of these rotations can physically and mentally wear down students, causing many to drop out. 3. Financial Challenges Nursing school is costly for several reasons. For starters, tuition fees vary widely, ranging from approximately $7,000 for those pursuing an associate degree in nursing (ADN) to over $300,000 for students pursuing advanced graduate nursing degrees. The demanding nature of nursing programs, which includes attending rotating clinical placements and keeping up with the coursework, leaves little time for most nursing students to have a separate job. When living expenses are factored in, the financial burden can be substantial, adding to the stress experienced by students. Balancing these financial obligations along with academic and clinical responsibilities is extremely challenging and a big contributor to student stress. Celebrating and Supporting Student Nurses Student Nurse Day is an annual observance held on May 8th, coinciding with National Nurses Week. Its origins trace back to Dorothy Sutherland of the U.S. Department of Health in 1953 when she proposed for the U.S. to have a day dedicated to recognizing nurses. Although Sutherland’s initial proposal for a Nurse Day didn’t come to fruition, it spurred the recognition of National Nurse Week the following year. Sutherland played a pivotal role in bringing attention to the idea. Eventually, in 1998, the American Nurses Association established National Student Nurse Day to recognize student nurses’ diligence. In honor of Student Nurse Day, consider sharing stories and posts on your organizations’ social media platforms to highlight and acknowledge student nurses, sharing thank you notes with the students nurses involved with your organization, or providing a small token of appreciation. Resources for Student Nurses It’s common for student nurses to face burnout during their nursing education. A Swedish survey revealed burnout rates of 29.7% among first-year nursing students and 36.9% among second-year students. With burnout rates higher than most other academic paths, it is incredibly important for student nurses to seek out resources. Mentorship and peer support networks offer valuable insight into the field, providing advice and a listening ear when times get too overwhelming. It’s a great way to learn from others in the same position. Financial support through scholarship programs, grants, and financial aid is another avenue for students to explore. This assistance can significantly alleviate financial burdens in the long term. Here are some recommended organizations and programs offering resources for student nurses: American Nurses Association (ANA) community: Student Subscriber Program National Student Nurses Association, Inc. (NSNA): Prospective Nursing Student Resource Guide American Association of Nurse Practitioners: Student Membership Health Occupations Students Association (HOSA): Student Membership The
