As you reach the end of your nursing program, it may really be hitting you: Starting your first nursing job is a big deal. You’ve put in countless hours of studying for exams and spent many early mornings at clinical rotations to get here. But stepping into the real world of nursing can feel like a leap no one truly prepares you for.
Right now, you may be feeling a mix of excitement and uncertainty. You’re ready to be done with school but aren’t sure what comes next.
That’s how I felt in the weeks before starting my first job as a pediatric nurse.
Every nurse has moments of doubt and learns plenty of lessons along the way. These realities don’t always get covered in school, but knowing what to expect makes a big difference once you make the leap into the workforce.
Here are a few things I wish I would’ve known before starting my nursing career.
1. Job Interviews Aren’t Scary (If You Prepare)
Though you might feel intimidated by your first nursing job interview now, interviewing doesn’t need to be scary. Setting yourself up for success just takes a little preparation.
Don’t worry about brushing up on lab numbers or nursing diagnoses for your interview. Trust the work you’ve done so far, and focus on the logistics of the job you’re pursuing.
Get familiar with the facility’s mission statement, values, and patient care philosophy. Research how they approach staffing, professional development, and care ratios. Equipping yourself with this background knowledge can help you respond with more thoughtful answers and ask impressive questions of your own.
Speaking of, don’t shy away from asking the interviewer questions. Asking questions shows the manager or recruiter that you’re serious about working there and gives you valuable information to decide if the job is a good fit for you.
Nursing Nugget: Prepare for your interview by researching the facility and writing questions down ahead of time. Approach the discussion with confidence and remember your worth.
2. Don’t Settle for the Wrong Workplace
Choosing the right workplace is just as important as landing a job—perhaps even more. Not all healthcare facilities are a good fit for new nurses, and the specific unit or clinic you work in can significantly affect your happiness and career growth.
The interview is the easiest way to learn about a workplace because you can ask direct questions. However, many facilities allow job candidates to shadow or observe in the unit they’re interviewing with. If they offer that opportunity, seriously consider accepting. That way, you can learn firsthand what it’s like to be a nurse in that specific setting from someone who already is.
During your visit, observe how staff members interact with patients and each other. Ask yourself if the culture seems supportive or stressful. Are safe patient ratios a priority? Does leadership seem to value nurses’ voices?
If your gut tells you something’s off with about the job, trust it. The wrong workplace can leave you burned out and dissatisfied. So, take the time to find a job that fits you rather than settling for the first offer.
Nursing Nugget: Investigate your potential work environment thoroughly, and don’t settle. You deserve a fulfilling job where your values and career goals are supported.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Your Co-Workers Questions
Transitioning from “student nurse” to “nurse” is overwhelming. Luckily, your co-workers can be invaluable resources. Asking questions isn’t a sign of weakness. It shows you’re willing to take initiative and are committed to delivering safe, excellent patient care.
I wish I had taken this advice to heart sooner. It would have made my life as a new nurse much easier. Whether you’re clarifying a procedure, navigating protocols, or managing a difficult assignment, your colleagues can provide insights unmatched by any orientation manual.
That said, whenever possible, use the resources available and try to solve problems independently. Do some research. More often than not, you can find the answer. When you do, the information may be easier to remember.
If you still need help, approach your teammates thoughtfully by being specific and concise to respect everyone’s time. Most nurses are happy to share their knowledge, especially when they see a new nurse who is eager to learn.
Nursing Nugget: Ask your co-workers questions. Asking for help after you’ve made an honest effort to solve the problem yourself shows initiative and makes you a better nurse.
4. Prioritize a Routine for Work-Life Balance
Work-life balance. Those little words are thrown around a lot in healthcare workplaces. However, most new nurses overlook their importance.
Adjusting to the unpredictable and demanding schedule of a nursing job, especially for new grads who often land on the night shift, can be challenging.
Creating a routine is a good place to start. Ensure you have a consistent sleep schedule and plan time to cook yourself healthy meals. (And please find time to eat them during those hectic shifts!) Your body will thank you.
Outside of work, prioritize activities that fill you up. Self-care can help prevent burnout, and starting good habits early sets you up for a happier career.
Nursing Nugget: Balance the demands of nursing by consistently prioritizing a self-care routine. Taking care of yourself is the best investment you can make early in your career.
5. It’s Okay to Admit You Dislike Your Job
Nursing is a calling for many, but that doesn’t mean you’ll love every job. It’s okay to feel disconnected or even unhappy in your role. Feeling this way doesn’t make you a bad nurse or invalidate your desire to help others.
Every workplace has unique dynamics, and sometimes, the environment, leadership, or workload simply isn’t a good fit. Recognizing that you’re unhappy is the first step toward positive change.
Take time to reflect on the cause of your dissatisfaction. Is it something that can be addressed, like speaking to a manager about patient ratio concerns? Or is it a deeper issue, like organizational policies that go against your values?
No matter the answer, remember that there are always other paths to explore – including jobs outside the hospital. Nursing is an incredibly versatile profession with countless specialties, settings, and roles. Remember, prioritizing your happiness benefits you and the patients you care for.
Nursing Nugget: It’s okay to admit you dislike your job, but don’t stay stuck. Reflect on the problems, try to find solutions, and don’t be afraid to explore new opportunities.
