assigned a nurse taking care of the patient as well . However , as a new nurse , you will be in charge of managing multiple patients , as well having to communicate with patient ’ s families and the healthcare team . Having a larger patient assignment requires time management skills and learning to prioritize tasks , which can be a daunting responsibility to juggle as a new nurse .
How to Overcome : Using such tools as situation , background , assessment , and recommendation ( SBAR ) to communicate with healthcare professionals and allowing time for patients to voice their concerns can facilitate positive rapport . Strong and effective communication can lead to an increase in nurse satisfaction ( University of New Mexico , 2020 ). By practicing effective communication strategies , conflict can be resolved quicker .
To better prepare for unexpected situations during your shift , begin by reviewing patient orders and highlighting task times before you begin your assignments . To prepare new nurses , The National Council of State Boards of Nursing offers a Transition into Practice Series ( National Council of State Boards of Nursing , 2021 ). The Transition into Practice Series is a program that is developed into five courses of competencies new nurses can develop throughout their first year of practice . Competencies include communication , patient care , and clinical decision making ( National Council of State Boards of Nursing , 2021 ). This resource is helpful in perfecting novice nursing skills .
Challenge # 3 : Nurse Bullying \ As a new nurse , you will work with nurses of different ages and experience levels ; these factors can contribute to nurse cliques and bullying . Sixty percent of nurses who leave their first job , cite nurse bullying which can consist of gossiping , hostility , aggression , or even violence , as a reason for leaving ( Edmonson & Zelonka , 2019 ). Bullying and incivility in the workplace can lead to a decline in the nurse ’ s well-being , as well as patient care ( American Nurses Association , 2021 ).
How to Overcome : Bonding with fellow novice peers may be helpful in tackling the challenges of nurse bullying and can improve your self-confidence . The American Nurses Association ’ s position statement against nurse bullying offers resources on their website including tips on how to identify and handle a bully as well as recommendations on when to take action ( American Nurse Association , 2021 ). It is acceptable to politely confront the bully and communicate to reach a common ground ; however , if that does not work , going up the chain of command is encouraged .
Challenge 4 : Work / Life Balance New nurses commonly work holidays , long shifts , nights , and weekends . Inconsistent work schedules can increase stress and lead to clinical depression and anxiety . Roughly 35 % of 102 nurses surveyed recently , demonstrated symptoms of depression and anxiety ( Maharaj et al ., 2018 ). Long shifts and inconsistent schedules are associated with poor mental health , which can hinder professional performance and personal life ( Maharaj et al ., 2018 ). The stress of finding a work / life balance can be contribute to a decline in mental health .
How to Overcome : When finding a work / life balance , there are preventative measures you can take to have a healthy relationship between the two worlds . Learning to leave work at work is vital , as stress can be a strong contributor to instability in a work / life balance . Perhaps talking with a friend on the drive home from work or even seeking counseling may assist you in learning to not take your work home with you . Prioritizing what matters to you , such as sleep , exercise , and having a
40 NSNA IMPRINT • FEBRUARY / MARCH 2023 • www . nsna . org