While having fresh NCLEX knowledge is helpful, some things aren’t taught in nursing school that would be extremely helpful in a new grad nursing program. On top of learning the technical skills of assessments and procedures, it would be helpful to know some soft skills as well. Here are 4 must-know things before starting your new grad nursing program, that I wish I knew beforehand.
1 – Use a dedicated pocket notebook to write down everything you learn during orientation and classes
When I first started out, I did not have a pocket notebook when I was on the floor. I kept asking the same questions when it was easier to write it all down once and use that as a referral. For example, there are specific protocols to follow, codes to remember, and small tips that would be useful to remember.
In case you might lose that pocket notebook during your shift, write down all your tips on a google doc and keep it updated. That way, you can easily print out a copy of all your notes that you can fold and keep in your pocket.
I wrote a blog post related to study tips for
2 – Socialize with your co-workers and ask them to find you if there’s anything interesting
The more exposure you get, the better. People need to know your name (and know you exist). I struggle with socializing with my co-workers since most of them do not share similar interests with me, but you make do with what you have! Approach everyone in a friendly demeanor and introduce yourself to new co-workers that you’ll be working with.
When the time comes, if there is a patient getting a procedure done that you have not seen before or you want to practice your skills, knowing people’s names come a long way to get you the practice you need.
3 – Learn basic medical Spanish
This mostly applies to California and a good part of the United States, but there are plenty of patients who only speak Spanish. In an emergency setting where the translators aren’t connecting on the device, you need to know some emergency phrases to get things done. I realize how much faster I would be if I could understand at least the basic phrases such as those related to pain, tests, results, and explaining basic procedures.
The best way that I have learned Spanish is by watching videos on YouTube with actual conversations related to healthcare topics. Here’s an example of one of the videos I used to study!
This is one of the best concise reads to start using Medical Spanish ASAP: Spanish for Healthcare Workers
4 – Ask to rotate to other floors if your new grad program does not already include this option
From an ER nurse perspective, we send patients all over the hospital to Med-Surg, ICU, PCU, etc. but it is good to get a one-day rotation on each floor. New grad nurses can get a better idea of the workflow if they can see firsthand how the healthcare staff work. I advocated to rotate on our PCU floor because that is the most common unit we were sending patients to, and I am glad I did. I learned how to board patients in the ED, how to initiate care plans, and how to do floor nursing.
Thank you again for reading my post! If you made it this far, I truly appreciate your time and welcome you to the introverted nurse community :-)) Reach out to me here for any comments or questions you have!