Shift Happens: Navigating Your First Year as a Nurse

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Every nurse remembers their first year—that mix of excitement, terror, and the overwhelming feeling that there's too much to learn and not enough time. Whether you're a new graduate stepping onto the floor for the first time or a seasoned nurse transitioning to a new specialty, that first year brings unique challenges that test both clinical skills and emotional resilience.
In this candid conversation, hosts Jenn and Phara take you behind the scenes of nursing's most formative year. Drawing from their combined decades of experience, they share personal stories that will resonate with anyone who's ever doubted themselves in a new role. Phara recalls her first registered nursing position managing group homes for adults with disabilities while caring for a newborn—a challenge that taught her valuable lessons about knowing when a position isn't the right fit. Both hosts emphasize how unit culture significantly impacts a nurse's development and confidence-building during this crucial period.
The episode dives deep into practical strategies for not just surviving but thriving during your first year. You'll learn why taking thorough notes throughout your shift can save you hours of documentation stress, how arriving early sets you up for success, and why comfortable shoes might be your most important nursing investment. The hosts explore the delicate balance of asking questions without feeling like a burden, building relationships with physicians as colleagues rather than superiors, and finding trusted mentors who can guide your development.
Perhaps most importantly, Jenn and Phara offer reassurance that mistakes and uncertainties are normal parts of professional growth. They emphasize celebrating wins, practicing self-compassion, and recognizing that confidence comes with time and experience. As they remind listeners with their catchphrase "shift happens," change is inevitable in nursing—but with the right mindset and support, you'll develop the resilience needed to navigate whatever challenges come your way.
Whether you're currently in your first nursing year, mentoring someone who is, or simply curious about the profession's formative experiences, this episode provides valuable insights into nursing's most challenging and transformative year.

Chapters

1. Welcome to Listen Very Costly (00:00:00)

2. Catching Up on Our Week (00:00:58)

3. The Weather and Climate Change (00:04:53)

4. First Year in Nursing Practice (00:09:52)

5. Learning from Mistakes and Building Confidence (00:14:01)

6. Strategies for Success as a New Nurse (00:19:55)

7. Taking Good Notes and Professionalism (00:30:06)

8. Navigating Workplace Dynamics and Challenges (00:35:46)

9. Celebrating Wins and Avoiding Burnout (00:39:32)