So I just started working as an RN Monday. We had orientation from 7:30 until 4:30 Monday and the rest of the week 8:00 until 4ish. Today I got out reasonably early because I finished everything for today yesterday. Orientation on days 1 and 2 consisted of meeting in a conference room and listening to the CEO, COO and other members of the hospital talk about the policies of the hospital etc. I, like most of my peers, was in a state of shock the entire time. I still couldn't believe that I was there. Me. A registered nurse working for the largest hospital in our area? Yeah, I can't believe it. But here I am. XD The first few days were just to get us acquainted with the rules, etc.
Day 3-5 were nursing orientation. We did nursing skills such as starting IV, putting in urinary catheters, setting up chest tubes, cleaning central lines and trachs. We also learned how to set up the IV pumps and use the EMAR system. The MAR system is kind of confusing, but I think it'll be very useful when giving meds. The only down side to the entire nursing orientation was that I didn't pass my pharm exam the first time. I made a 80 instead of the 85 I was supposed to. I studied and passed it today with a 100. XD I'm glad about that because I was really stressing out about it. It's sad to say but I'm really glad that I wasn't the only one who had to retake it. It made me feel that I wasn't the only one who just didn't get it. Second times a charm though and I blew that exam out of the water!!
I start working Monday. I'm excited and terrified at the same time, but I know that they don't expect me to know everything right away. I'll try my best to do what I've been taught and be the best nurse I can be. I really do think that I'll like this job. It's a bit overwhelming right now, but I know things will calm down eventually (more like in a few months, but who's counting?)
This is my free weekend before I start working as a nurse so I'm gonna enjoy it.
Good luck to all the nurses out there who are starting their jobs. If you're nervous you are not alone. We're all in it together!!!
Me
