October 7, 2024

advice for new nurses

Hints to help new grads prosper in the transition to work

by Leave a Comment

Here are some of the most common questions new graduates have, answered by the Association’s professional team:

Is it normal to feel really overwhelmed and a little apprehensive?

Remember this is a journey of transitioning from what was, to what is. It will be like an obstacle course: overwhelming. You can have high expectations and feel that you should be functioning more like an experienced nurse, but remember you can be your own worst critic, and don’t be too hard on yourself.

Poor workplace culture – what do I do?

It is important to stay true to yourself and your professional practice. Making sure you follow the professional standards guidelines and frameworks that govern your practice. Make sure you form good habits early as they will stay with you always. You will see practice that might not be appropriate and one of the best ways to address this is to ask for a rational explanation.

Do you have tips for time management?

First look at the shift-orientated tasks you have to complete: medications, observations, documentation and so on. These need to take priority; the rest are nursing-orientated tasks that can be handed over if needed. It is also vital to ask for help and delegate early if you are struggling.

What about medications?

It is going to take time to do your medication rounds – this is normal and makes you safe. If sharing a medication trolley a good tip is to use it last. This will reduce pressure to rush and decrease the risk of errors. It is going to take time to get the hang of it. Be nice to yourself.

What do I do when i am asked to do things I haven’t done before?

Your experience and level of knowledge will be influenced by the clinical placements you have had. So it is important to let people know what experience you have had and that it is ok to say I am a new grad, I have not been exposed to this, do you mind showing me as I am happy to have a go, I just need to be shown.

How do I cope with shift work?

This is one of the hardest things to get used to. You need to listen to your body and make time for yourself as this next year is going to be pretty intense. Ensure you don’t say yes to too much overtime as you will become fatigued and this is when errors happen. Be aware of the toll the initial transition can take on your personal energy and time.

What should I do if I am being bullied?

You need to raise the concern with your educator as well as the manager. If you are not confident doing this, find a senior staff member who might be an advocate for your concerns, or you can ring and ask for advice from the Association.

The primary task of a new grad is to develop skills you are not expected to have. That’s why we call it a transition. It takes time and experience to become a proficient practitioner within a dynamic and intense workplace. So go easy on the self-criticism – it takes a long time to become an expert.

10 things new nurses need to know

by Leave a Comment

Going into nursing can be incredibly daunting. It’s a new environment, where you meet new people and learn new skills. Here’s our top ten tips for jumping into the profession.

  1. You won’t know everything, and that’s ok

Everyone knows that you’re a new nurse, so it’s ok not to know everything. While nursing school and your pracs can give you a lot of knowledge, you’ve still got a whole career to learn about your new profession.

  1. You will be on your own – a lot

As a new grad, don’t expect to be hand held the whole time. While you might have quite a bit of orientation and education, you’ll also be left on your own at times. Don’t be scared though – stick to what you know and seek assistance where you need to, and you’ll be just fine.

  1. “Thank-you!” goes a long way

You’ll be working with a lot of people over your time as a nurse who will be helping you out. Whether it’s your educator or mentor, or the person you’ve been team nursing with on shift, make sure you thank them.

Photo Credit: Canva
  1. Always do what’s best for your patient

As nurses, we’re here to be patient advocates. However hard or annoying it might be, make sure you stay true to your role. Their lives are literally depending on it.

  1. A bad shift DOES NOT make you a bad nurse

Like every other job, being a nurse comes with its good days and its not-so-good days. Despite this, remember to just keep going. Those days may be hard – it may even make you doubt whether you should be a nurse – but trust me, a bad shift doesn’t make you a bad nurse.

  1. Make sure you join your union

While most days will be fine and dandy, you’ll also be faced with some shocker shifts. Whether it’s a self-harming patient, an understaffed ward, or just an unfortunate mistake, you can find yourself in a little bit of trouble. When these days happen, you’ll want the support of your nursing union. They’ll be able to assist you in the Nursing and Midwifery Council or the Health Care Complaints Commission. Plus, they’ll even represent you in the dreaded Coroner’s Court!

Make sure you join your union | Photo Credit: NSWNMA
  1. There’s no such thing as a “stupid question”

It might seem a little bit embarrassing, but make sure you ask lots of questions – even when they may seem silly or benign. Trust me, there’s no such thing as a stupid question when you’re a nurse!, Better to be safe than sorry..

  1. Self care isn’t an option – it’s a necessity

You can’t care for others if you can’t care for yourself. Make sure you look after your own physical and mental health, particularly as you transition into the nursing workforce.

If you need a hand with self care, make sure you check out the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association’s self care courses. They’re a lot of fun, and count for your CPD.

Check out some courses on self care | Photo Credit: NSWNMA
  1. Take the time to listen to your patients

Listening to your patients is key our professions. How can you perform your job as a carer and advocate if you don’t listen to the person you’re looking after. Sometimes it may seem impossible – particularly when you’re short staffed – but it’s critical to the work that we do.

  1. You’ll change – in all aspects of your life

Nursing is an all-encompassing role. You never really stop being a nurse, even when you’re out of your scrubs. Whether it’s your ability to care, listen to patients, or manage time and resources, your nursing skills will change everything from who you are as a parent to how you do your shopping!

Look, this might all seem daunting, but you’ve got a great cohort and profession by your side. You’ve also got an incredible Professional Association backing you every step of the way. So get to it, and enjoy the roller coaster that will be your nursing career.

Do you know what benefits you’re entitled to as a member of the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association?

Our members in the public, private and aged care sectors have together achieved great gains for our profession. By becoming a member, you’ll be joining over 67,000 nurses and midwives in NSW and share the benefits of belonging while participating in a wide range of Association activities – as often or as little as you choose. Membership is also fully tax deductible.

Check out all the benefits on this page. If you are not yet a member and would like us to contact you, please complete this form:

5 tips on what to wear to a new grad interview

by Leave a Comment

Stumped for what to wear to your new grad interview? You don’t need to buy a whole new wardrobe – Nurse Uncut has you covered! Here are our top tips for looking spiffy come your interview.

  1. Dress smart
Dressing smart can make you look smart | Photo Credit: Canva

Smart casual or professional business attire is a must for your interview. For men, this means trousers, a collared shirt and polished leather shoes. A tie is optional, but could add a more sophisticated touch. Women should wear a skirt or trousers and business shirt, as well as comfortable shoes.

  1. Be professional
Remember, this isn’t the club – this is your potential future career | Photo Credit: Canva

First impressions are critical – and it’s no different in interviews. Present yourself in a professional manner. Iron your clothes, wear your hair or beard in a neat manner, and remove any chipped nail polish or unprofessional jewellery. Remember, this isn’t the club – it’s a business interview for your future career.

  1. Be comfortable
Dress comfortable, be comfortable | Photo Credit: Canva

You’ll come across more naturally if you’re feeling comfortable in what you’re wearing. If you’re uncomfortable wearing a skirt or dress, feel free to wear appropriate trousers instead. For men, only wear a tie if you feel comfortable wearing one. You don’t want to be scratching or pulling at garments throughout your interview.

  1. Less is more
When it comes to accessorising, less is definitely more | Photo Credit: Canva

Well, definitely when it comes to make-up, perfume and aftershave! While we wouldn’t go as far as to say you shouldn’t wear any, we recommend using them sparingly. The same goes for jewellery and other accessories.

  1. Be yourself
Subtle touches can really elevate a look | Photo Credit: Canva

Remember, the panel wants to see the real you during the interview. If appropriate, feel free to add a subtle brooch, tie clip or scarf to your ensemble. Again, less is more, but these touches could really elevate your look.

Let us know if you have any other great tips! If you need any more support, NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association members can call 02 8595 1234. If you’re not yet a member, you can also sign up here.

And if you’re lucky enough to receive a placement, check out the amazing Transitioning to the Workplace workshops, offered by the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association. 

5 Things Nurses And Midwives Can Do to Improve your Wellbeing

by Leave a Comment

Flustered at work? Finding you have no energy at the end of a shift? There are a few things you can do to help you relax and reduce burn out.

1 – Breathe

Short-staffed and too many patients to see? Just pausing to focus on your breathing can help resettle yourself.

This one is super simple and can take two minutes or less. Grab a stopwatch or timer (smart phone should have one) and hit start. Draw in a regular breath (not too deep!) and hold it for 10 seconds then breathe out and do it again. Continue this for about two minutes. Afterwards you will feel calmer and ready to get straight back into it. Check out more exercises.

2 – Switch off social media

While you aren’t checking social media on shift, it can really help mentally to not touch it on breaks. Talk to friends you work with, read a book, listen to a podcast or music instead.

Make sure you turn off notifications for Facebook, Twitter and Instagram so there are no reminders.

3 – Walk 

Being on your feet all day at work would turn anyone off wanting to walk more!

But when you’re commuting to or from work, try and walk some of the distance. It might be as simple as walking to the next train or bus station past your nearest one. Leaving home that 15 minutes earlier to get in a walk can make a huge difference to your energy levels during the day – just make sure you stay safe!

4 – Write tasks down

Have a million little jobs to do but can’t keep track? We all get to a point where we lose track of what we’re doing or put jobs off. The best way to combat that is to write down what you need to do on a piece of paper. Still struggling? Break down each job into minor tasks and prioritise from there.

5 – Drink more water

Bet you’ve heard this one before. But did you know that water will stop those yawns and sleepy eyes?

If you’re feeling lethargic and struggling, it could be a sign of dehydration. Of all the reasons to drink more water, this is the most convincing one. And it meant less money spent on 3pm coffees or 2am soft drinks!

When you’re offered water, try to always say yes. You can never have enough.

Some of these are so simple it will become second nature once you appreciate the effect they have. Every little bit helps.

Do you have techniques that work for you? Please let us know in the comments below.

5 Things Nurses And Midwives Can Do At Work To Improve Wellbeing

by Leave a Comment

Flustered at work? Finding you have no energy at the end of a shift? There are a few things you can do to help you relax and reduce burn out.

1 – Breathe

 

 

 

 

 

 

Short-staffed and too many patients to see? Just pausing to focus on your breathing can help resettle yourself.

This one is super simple and can take two minutes or less. Grab a stopwatch or timer (smart phone should have one) and hit start. Draw in a regular breath (not too deep!) and hold it for 10 seconds then breathe out and do it again. Continue this for about two minutes. Afterwards you will feel calmer and ready to get straight back into it. Check out more exercises.

2 – Switch off social media

 

 

 

 

 

While you aren’t checking social media on shift, it can really help mentally to not touch it on breaks. Talk to friends you work with, read a book, listen to a podcast or music instead.

Make sure you turn off notifications for Facebook, Twitter and Instagram so there are no reminders.

3 – Walk 

 

 

 

 

Being on your feet all day at work would turn anyone off wanting to walk more!

But when you’re commuting to or from work, try and walk some of the distance. It might be as simple as walking to the next train or bus station past your nearest one. Leaving home that 15 minutes earlier to get in a walk can make a huge difference to your energy levels during the day – just make sure you stay safe!

4 – Write tasks down

 

 

 

 

 

 

Have a million little jobs to do but can’t keep track? We all get to a point where we lose track of what we’re doing or put jobs off. The best way to combat that is to write down what you need to do on a piece of paper. Still struggling? Break down each job into minor tasks and prioritise from there.

5 – Drink more water

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bet you’ve heard this one before. But did you know that water will stop those yawns and sleepy eyes?

If you’re feeling lethargic and struggling, it could be a sign of dehydration. Of all the reasons to drink more water, this is the most convincing one. And it meant less money spent on 3pm coffees or 2am soft drinks!

When you’re offered water, try to always say yes. You can never have enough.

Some of these are so simple it will become second nature once you appreciate the effect they have. Every little bit helps.

Do you have techniques that work for you? Please let us know in the comments below.

Your advice for ‘baby nurses’

by Leave a Comment

What would you tell a brand new member of our profession? Sonya M. Schwartzbach wrote a ‘letter to the baby nurses‘ on Huffington Post, which the New South Wales Nurses and Midwives’ Association shared on their Facebook page, asking readers to share their own words of advice.

Here’s what nurses had to say – lots of golden wisdom:

  • Train your bladder as well as your mind.
  • Invest in good shoes and decent handcream.
  • Every shift comes to an end.
  • Develop a sense of humour and a thick skin.
  • Remember to smile at and touch patients and listen to them. You can sometimes be the best diagnostician.
  • Try to understand the physiology, pharmacology and microbiology around what is happening with your patient. Learn something every day.
  • Try to have fun, with your patients and families, but, more important, your colleagues and friends.
  • Join the union. Sometimes they will be the only one in your corner.
  • It gets better. Respect yourself and your opinions. If you believe something is wrong, say something. Be professional. Be kind. Be organised and be a member of the union.
  • Patients don’t care how much you know … they do need to know that you care ❤️.
  • Treat those in your care the way you would want your loved ones cared for.
  • Always work as a team, speak up if things are not right, look after your back.
  • Self care is important; clear time away from being a nurse, leave work at work.
  • There’s no such thing as a stupid question. Learn from your mistakes.
  • The more you know, the more you know you don’t know, but that’s ok, just don’t be afraid to ask for help.
  • Make sure you understand what will be needed from you!
  • Don’t take more notice of machines and papers than you do of those in your care.
  • Remember the person has feelings and needs you to always be their voice. You do have to put others’ needs before your own. In other words, be a nurse!
  • Look after yourself, if you’re not well you can’t look after anyone else.
  • You have the right to be treated with kindness and respected for the practitioner you are.
  • Stand up for what you think is right.
  • Always make the patient your priority.
  • Always listen and try to understand your patient. Be their voice when they are afraid to use theirs. Learn from your seniors and doctors. Never be afraid to question them (without challenge). Be confident in your skills but keep learning.
  • Know your limitations and ask for help. Never think you’re above anyone or any task. Wiping bottoms is important too.
  • Smile as often as you can.
  • Best job you will ever have.
  • Make every patient’s time with you a positive journey, make a difference in their lives.
  • Your feet will never be the same again.
  • Guard your pen.
  • Get ready for eating on the run and not going to the toilet for hours after you need to.
  • Be genuine and kind.
  • Be strong for those in their darkest hours and do what needs to be done.
  • Know there are good and bad days, that doesn’t mean you’re a bad nurse.
  • Join the union straight away.

There were also some comments about the terminology of the article:

  • I certainly wouldn’t call our new grads ‘baby nurses’, they bring enthusiasm that we sometimes forget. They will be the future carers of some of us older nurses so we need to encourage and nurture them.
  • Don’t call me baby!
  • It would be rude and disrespectful to refer to our senior and experienced colleagues as “granny nurses” so why is the term “baby nurses” ok for new grads? I find it quite belittling and degrading.
  • I might be new-ish but I sure as heck am not a baby! New nurse…

Do you have any badvice to add to this? Leave your thoughts in comments below.

Previously on Nurse Uncut:

 

Verified by MonsterInsights