Transitions

I just gave away my nursing school uniform to a friend who is starting my old nursing program this fall. I have this pile of old school stuff just lying in my bedroom... taking up space. I was only too glad to give some of it to someone who could put it to good use. But, it was strangely .... sad? Shutting the door on my first nursing degree; having the memories and my degree as a reminder of the hard hours put in there. Leaving the materials and uniforms behind - I don't know - it was strange.

It's funny. A couple times this week on the floor, I felt like saying, "Do you know how hard I worked to get here?" Then, it occurred to me that each and every one of the nurses on the floor worked just as hard as I did. Yes, they know. I almost feel like I'm in a dream and at some point it will all fade away - when I wake up. I'm just so excited to be doing what I am doing.

It's been a great week! I did so much already. The floor is so busy. Lots of great opportunities to learn. My orientation has classroom components as well as on the floor learning experiences. I spent a whole day in class learning their computer order entering system - which was painfully long and boring - but necessary.

I got to assist with an external version and was so surprised at how rough it was. I was literally cringing during the procedure. I could only imagine how difficult it was for the dad to observe .. A compassionate hand on his shoulder was instinctual from my years of doula-ing.

There were nursing students on the floor today. It was surreal having the nursing students reporting to me; while it was just over a month ago I was the nursing student... Just plain odd. I have to get used to my new role.... and I will.

The staff is super supportive and never makes me feel overwhelmed, although it would be easy to feel that way. My preceptor and I were assigned 4 patients today. But, my preceptor is knowledgeable, and able to multi-task WHILE teaching. She is very reassuring that with exposure and practice, I will be just as smooth. One can dream, right? (Just don't wake me up if I am dreaming!)