Congratulations graduates! No doubt you are relieved to be out of nursing school and contemplating strategies to prepare for the NCLEX. Like most new grads, I spent massive hours of post-graduation / pre-NCLEX time sleeping. I had been sleep deprived for months as I struggled through endless courses, comprehensive exams, team projects and rotating clinicals.
Take this time to renew and replenish your body, mind and spirit. If possible, give yourself a break before you dive into NCLEX studies. Then, before launching into a full-time nursing career, consider the following:
1. Savor and celebrate every available holiday. You will probably spend most upcoming holidays at work!
2. Learn the value of flexibility. Stay positive when things don’t go as planned. And practice alternatives to whining. As nurses we are frequently blamed for situations outside of our control. Being frontline professionals we unfortunately incur wrath over uncomfortable environments, food service or housekeeping issues, problematic professionals and patients, and equipment concerns (such as broken wheelchairs and sluggish computers). Try and avoid the blame game by identifying your resources and alternatives ahead of time. Meanwhile, when you are the target of explosive frustration, take some deep breaths and remain calm.
3. Identify sources for support. Congratulations on utilizing this site! Nurseconnect.com is an excellent resource and networking tool. We hope you come here often and share your joys and frustrations with other nurse members. You may also want to find a mentor, either at this site or within your facility.
4. Beware of trying to “do it all” which can quickly lead to burnout. We are each part of a professional team. No one can do it alone. Swallow your pride and ask for help BEFORE you start to drown. “Working smart” is key and an acquired skill.
5. Maintain healthy life habits, although it may not be easy. Hopefully, you are already catching up on vital sleep and establishing positive eating and exercise habits. Continue these hearty endeavors after you start your nursing career.
6. Focus on positive and constructive communication. Don’t let yourself get sucked in by peer hostility or negative chit chat. If you feel unfairly treated, try to avoid being defensive. Talk directly with the perceived offender, if possible. If the situation persists despite clearly stated communication, you may need to alert your supervisor. Documenting incidents according to facility protocol is always a good idea; however, like all documentation, “write-ups” (a.k.a. incident reports, variances, or reports of contact) should be concise, objective and timely. Always consider your vulnerabilities and liabilities, remembering to operate within the legal scope of your license.
8. If you are truly unhappy in your new environment, consider changing to another work place (within or outside of your facility).
Do you think that nursing school prepared you for the real world of nursing? What tips would you share with new grads or new nursing students?