Even though a new nurse's first year in the medical sector might be quite stressful, the following strategies can help them acclimate to their new profession. Making relationships, taking care of oneself, and listening closely to patients are all things that may help new nurses succeed in their positions. If you are a new nurse or anticipate becoming one soon, you should consider taking some measures to prepare yourself for the responsibilities and commitments that come with the position. In this post, we will examine the duties of first-time nurses, as well as five recommendations for achieving success as a nurse in the field.


What are the responsibilities of first-time nurses?

Patients who are ill or injured require healthcare, counseling, and support, and first-time nurses are accountable for delivering this care. These professionals may be found working in several settings such as hospitals and clinics as well as schools and workplaces. They can also be found working in ambulances and senior living homes, among other places. New nurses are largely responsible for monitoring and evaluating patients, as well as ensuring that they are in good health and safety. They are often well-versed in critical thinking, communication, and the development of interpersonal connections. Here are some of the responsibilities of a first-time nurse:


  • Perform physical examinations and laboratory tests to diagnose patients.
  • Provide healthcare services such as administering prescriptions, drawing blood, wrapping bandages, and other operations.
  • Provide assistance in the field of rehabilitation
  • Provide bedside care and assistance to patients who are confined to their beds.
  • In the event of an emergency, communicate with more experienced nurses and/or doctors.
  • Providing patients with emotional support and therapy.
  • Maintain adherence to a patient care plan.


Getting started in a new nursing career might be hectic, but new nurses can be successful if they fully prepare for their new position. Some of the ways that new nurses might succeed and advance in their professions are as follows.


1. Become acquainted with one another

Introduce yourself to your unit as well as anybody else you may come into contact with or work with regularly. Other nurses, physicians, secretaries, administrative assistants, pharmacists, physical therapists, janitors, and management are examples of others who may be involved. Smiling and nicely introducing oneself might be the first step in developing solid, long-lasting friendships at your place of employment. When your colleagues call out their names, consider saying them back to them to help you recall them more easily in the future. You might want to spend a few minutes chatting with them to get to know them better. Making friends at work makes your job more fun and promotes greater collaboration among your colleagues.


2. Look for a mentor.

Look for a more experienced nurse, doctor, or employee who can serve as a mentor and a valued counsel to you and your colleagues. You may go to this individual with questions or worries, and they can teach you useful skills and approaches that they have gained from their own life experiences and training. Listening to, learning from, and forming a relationship with a more experienced professional may be beneficial in both your personal and professional lives, as it can provide you with a friend as well as a valuable resource.

Although not all nursing responsibilities are the same as what you study in a textbook, speaking with a mentor can help you grasp the realities of the medical area in which you are working. They can provide you specific pointers on how to do particular jobs more precisely and effectively if you ask them for them. In your first year as a nurse, remember to keep your head down and be open to other people's ideas. The ability to have an open mind can allow you to gain useful knowledge from others.


3. Take time for yourself.

Nurses must practice self-care because their shifts are generally lengthy (12 hours), allowing them to be at their best while also maintaining their mental and physical health, as well as doing their jobs efficiently. To maintain your health, you should consider the following:

Provide yourself with enough sleep: If you're having problems sleeping, consider experimenting with strategies that may assist, such as using blackout curtains or limiting screen time before bed. You might also try listening to calm music before bed. You can also request that your roommates, family members, and friends keep their voices down during your sleep period to guarantee that you obtain deep, restful sleep.

Eat well: Make sure you eat enough food and drink enough fluids to keep your energy levels up throughout the day. You may also make an effort to consume foods that are high in nutrients, such as berries, which may help you retain your stamina and ability to concentrate for extended periods.

Protect yourself against germs by doing the following: When working with sick patients, wash your hands regularly, make use a mask and gloves, and disinfect objects that you come into contact with frequently, such as your stethoscope, ID badge, and pen. These strategies may assist you in limiting the spread of germs and protecting your body from sickness.


4. Inquire about things.

In most cases, it is preferable to ask questions when you have them rather than trying to dismiss them. Inquire with your mentor, your charge nurse, or any other experts who have assisted you in your training. If you're not sure who to turn to for assistance, speak with your supervisor to determine the appropriate source of assistance. Knowing the answers to questions you may have throughout your first year on the job will help you ensure that you are doing your responsibilities appropriately. Make sure to ask questions in a clear and detailed manner so that anyone you're speaking with may completely comprehend what information you want and how to obtain it.


5. Develop a professional network of contacts

As a new nurse, you should take advantage of chances to expand your professional network. Attending workshops, seminars, and conferences, as well as being engaged in professional nursing organizations are all examples of how you may make a positive impression on your coworkers. You may also subscribe to a nursing publication to stay up with the latest developments and happenings in the medical field. Making important friendships and progressing in your career can be made possible by expanding the size of your professional network.


Conclusion

You are now prepared to begin your nursing career on the correct foot, having kept these useful suggestions in mind. A desire to assist others from the moment they are born until the very last moments of their life is something to be proud of in and of itself! NattyNurses expresses gratitude to all nurses, especially new nurses like you.


May 12, 2023

Natasha Osei

Passionate Nurse Practitioner | People person
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