Gerard
Since the start of the pandemic, a large strain and need for nurses was put on our country. Even in recent times, the nursing shortage has impacted hospitals and areas all over the country. The nursing shortage, created by the high demand and low supply of nurses, was an issue before the pandemic and has only grown in recent months. The high demand for nurses may seem like blessing for students entering the job search but, now it is even more important to make sure our new nurses are clinically prepared to work as a nurse and adapt to the high demand for nurses. After years of school and clinical the moment of finally taking and passing the NCLEX is a dream come true, but the learning doesn't stop there. New nurses are required to learn policies specific to their hospital and will learn endless amounts of information on their orientation.
One major program that is being adopted by hospitals throughout the country is the Nurse Residency Program. Each nurse residency program is a little different but the overarching goal is to prepare new nurses to succeed in their new roles as RN's and many residency programs are tailored for specific specialties. These programs are designed to help new graduates learn and gain experience that can aid these nurses in performing high-quality care to their patients. These programs typically last six to twelve months and even incorporate class room and simulation activities. These programs really help to facilitate better patient care and increase the confidence of new nurses as they enter their profession.
Do not be discouraged if a hospital you are interested in working at does not offer a Nurse Residency Program. Since the start of the pandemic many hospitals have begun to revamp most new nurse orientations to focus on the transition from nursing school to working as a Registered Nurse. Across the country many program hours were limited and learning was virtual for some time, to combat this many hospitals have also increased the amount of time new nurses spend on orientation. Most hospitals also utilize Nurse Educators who are graduate level prepared and work to help new nurses in the classroom and on the unit.
For new nurses so much experience is gained after starting your first job. One great thing about nursing is that you never stop learning! As a new nurse you will be assigned a preceptor. They are similar to a preceptor in nursing clinical and they will supervise and help you find your feet as a new nurse. Preceptors allow new nurses to find what works for them and can help them prioritize daily care. As a new nurse, it can be very overwhelming, so it is important to make sure that you have a support system to rely on. Over time you will start to feel more confident and become more competent. Ancillary staff in the hospital can be very helpful to work with as well and can help you with the transition. Working with nursing assistant's and patient care technicians can help you provide better care for your patients. You are not alone when at work and it is important to realize that you can ask for help.
As more nurses enter the field, more graduate level programs will also become available. Nurses have many pathways to advance their career such as becoming a Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Educator. These programs provide new paths for nurses who want to focus on a specific area of care and further build their knowledge. Some more information on Decker's Nursing Graduate Programs in Nursing can be found here.
Nursing turnover rates are extremely high in the first two years of work. Both nurses and hospitals are working to combat this high rate however, it is important to understand how many different types of nursing is out there! Inpatient and outpatient nursing have many different fields and areas of expertise. Do not be discouraged if you feel that your first job is not the best fit for you! Outpatient and travel nursing are both rapidly growing fields with COVID and nurses are being sought after all over the country! Nursing is such a diverse field and there are always new areas or jobs that you can explore as a nurse.
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