You graduated nursing school. You have taken the licensing exam and passed. By state law requirements, you have proven your ability to practice as a licensed nurse. You will soon start your first job and you feel like a complete phony. This is a common phenomenon known as “imposter syndrome”. This phenomenon occurs among high-achieving individuals who do not feel as if they earned their accomplishments based on their own efforts. They feel like they could be “found out” as a phony. If you identify with this phenomenon, read on to learn 5 practical ways to prepare for Imposter Syndrome as a new nurse and visit verywellmind for additional information.
Become familiar with equipment and supplies
As you transition from student nurse to licensed nurse, ensure that you are comfortable with the equipment and supplies you use regularly at your training facility. Feeling confident in one area can allow you to free your mind of concerns that others will assume you don’t know what you’re doing because you couldn’t program the IV pump or you struggled with setting up the alarm limits on the heart monitor. When you have the opportunity, go into a patient room. Look at the monitors and other equipment. Put your hands on them and touch the buttons to see what they do. If you need to, do this multiple times. Having this knowledge will make space in your brain to synthesize essential information as you assess patients. You will feel comfortable with the equipment and can focus on interpreting pertinent data.
Find a Nursing “Bestie”
Work toward getting to know people you work with and find a “go-to” person. A work bestie who will allow you to ask questions, even the ones you think might be “dumb”. This person should be someone you an confide in when you’re having a rough day and someone you can celebrate with during triumphs.
Utilize Positive Self-Talk
Though you may not feel ready to take care of patients, remember not to let thoughts of inadequacy consume you. Remind yourself of what you have accomplished so far. You have studied, practiced and taken countless exams including the one that deems you competent to care. When I started my first job as a registered nurse I was riddled with anxiety as I prepared for my shifts. I had learned that people tend to perform better when they stand tall and take up more space. Click here to listen to a TED talk about this concept. With this information, I would listen to the song Unstoppable by Sia and stand tall with my hands on my waist like a nursing superhero. This decreased my anxiety and gave me confidence to step into the role of caregiver.
Remember Who You are in Christ
When I am lacking in confidence, I lean on my favorite scripture – “For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13. Remember that He called you to this profession. Even when you don’t feel equipped, you can rest in Him. “For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Philippians 2:13, and He will guide you as the Great Physician. To read more bible scriptures click here to learn about YouVersion Bible.
Know that Imposter Syndrome is Common and Can Happen
Knowledge is power. The more you understand what imposter syndrome is and how it can affect you, the more prepared you will be if you experience it. It is common and does not mean anything is wrong with you. Utilize the steps above as you enter the healthcare field as a new nurse or transition to a new setting and your confidence will grow.
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