Part of being a new nurse is sometimes feeling like you don’t belong, aka imposter syndrome. Nursing school has prepared you as best they can education wise, but you just have to start working to learn the rest. So, let’s jump in and learn how to work around that imposter syndrome feeling as a new nurse.
What is Imposter Syndrome?
Imposter syndrome as a new nurse is the feeling that you don’t belong in the clinical setting because you don’t know enough.
As a newly graduated nurse starting a new job, you’re typically aware of the fact that there is still so much nursing knowledge you don’t know. Being this self-aware can actually be a good thing! It means you are seeking to learn and growing in ways you might not have even known where possible. But on the other hand, this realization can also be very scary and almost debilitating in the workplace. Let’s go over a few of these imposter syndrome thoughts and how to go about overcoming imposter syndrome in the workplace.
Do I Know Everything?
The answer to this is very simple, no! You don’t know everything there is to know about nursing, and that’s totally normal. You’re new! Instead of flooding your brain with this question, try looking at the situation in another light.
You passed nursing school. You passed the NCLEX. And the BRN declared you competent enough to start your nursing career!
If your teachers, nursing school, NCLEX, and BRN says you’re ready, then you must be! So believe in yourself, acknowledge where you’re at, and seek to learn!
Can I Do This?
Every nurse has to start somewhere. Which is why choosing the right workplace is so important. Make sure you have someone at work that you trust to lead you in the right direction. This person might be a preceptor, a breaker, or a shift lead. Know where to find important information like hospital policies. Humble yourself in knowing that you’re a new nurse and you aren’t expected to know everything! And don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
See Where to Search for Your Dream Job for help on finding the perfect job and also How to Get the Most Out of Your Preceptorship for more info.
But I’m afraid!
Of course you are! And it’s normal! Even experienced nurses get nervous when doing a skill or procedure they haven’t done in a long time!
Take a deep breath and know that you are exactly where you’re supposed to be. Gather all your supplies and go over skills with a coworker or breaker before actually doing it. Review your hospital policies, take everything one step at a time, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. You’d much rather ask for help beforehand rather than do something incorrectly. And if you find yourself getting nervous before your shift, visit How to Overcome Pre-Shift Anxiety for Nurses.
You Got This! Be sure to visit:
- 10 Best Amazon Must Haves For New Grad Nurses
- Start of Shift Plan for New Nurses
- How to do a Quick yet Effective Head-to-Toe Assessment
- How to Raise Awareness on Workplace Violence in the Nursing and Healthcare Field