For what it's worth, I can assure you that every single ICU nurse feels the same way you do on their first day. You'll do great. Just allow yourself to be okay with feeling really stupid for quite a long time, and ask a lot of questions every day. And for what it's worth, I think the "Can I do this, can I handle this, am I smart enough?" feelings stick around for a good while. I'm finishing up my second year in ICU and still have plenty of those days. You'll do great, just give it some time!
I'm an ICU tech and I just had my first week last week. Im an RN student as well. I think I got "culture shock" because I went home, cried and thought I am way too dumb to ever be a critical care nurse. Thank you for writing this and giving me hope for my future. I know I am weak in a self esteem dept but I want to challenge myself and achieve success in the unit I'm on now. This is the hardest thing I'll ever do and I know that but I'm determined to not give up on this.
I find myself coming back to this video several times per week. I just started in an ICU at a level 1 trauma center and have never felt so incompetent in my entire life. It's encouraging to know that it's normal to feel this way and that it gets easier. Thank you so much for you videos!!
Hey...I felt EXACTLY the same way for 2 years when I first started out in ICU. That pit in my stomach before my shift, feeling like I'm going to jump out of my skin, the list goes on. I have never been so humbled in my life. You've got a leg up because you've already been a nurse before! Sending you good vibes--it will get better.
Started my first day as a patient care tech (with no prior experience) in the ED today. I came home feeling defeated and down, then remembered this video of yours. Feeling a little better after reminding myself that “we’ve all been there.” Thanks again for sharing this experience 💛
I'm an ICU tech and I just had my first week last week. Im an RN student as well. I think I got "culture shock" because I went home, cried and thought I am way too dumb to ever be a critical care nurse. Thank you for writing about your experience in the ED on your first day, and giving me hope for my future. I know I am weak in a self esteem dept but I want to challenge myself and achieve success in the unit I'm on now. Where are you now and how are you doing?
Ashley you are good enough. everything in the beginning is always hard, especially when dealing with critical people/situations. Soon we will be watching videos on how much you love your job and what a good choice you have made.
thank you for what you do. I was in a coma 7 days and vented for 10. I had pneumonia and had general anesthesia..if it wasn't for girls like you I'd had died.
Hi Ashley! I just started my first nursing job as a new grad RN on a med oncology floor and it is so comforting to know that we all go through these experiences, with similar thoughts and feelings. I've looked up to you since I first started watching your channel and wanted to thank you for sharing your stories with all of us. Not only are we rooting for you but we are proud of you and what you are doing for all of us in this nursing community. Lifelong learning is something we as nurses need to embrace with open minds in order to really make a difference and grow as professionals even if it makes us doubtful and uncomfortable. Thank you for sharing, you are an amazing nurse and will only become more great as time goes by! Sincerely, a baby nurse
Thank you so much for posting this video and being so raw with your emotions. I'm currently on orientation in a busy ICU and I'm really struggling to find my confidence. I feel defeated after almost every shift. It just helps to hear that I'm not the only one going through the same type of issues = )
I know what you mean..I'm a nursing student hopeful, and while I haven't felt defeated in nursing, I've felt defeated in one way or another in other areas of life. I know, and you know, that this is just a hump that you'll get over. The issue is that it feels so uncomfortable to be in this grey space, but we HAVE to go through it. You are being tested, and it's how you come out after all this that determines your greatness in the field. Honestly, I think the best of the best have gone through this, and several times. But they remained optimistic, they reminded themselves every day of the hurdles that they've overcome, and looked ahead to the future with determination. Go get a manicure, put on some makeup, get your favorite drink, look at your graduation pictures, your acceptance to Nursing School letters, and you'll remember that you deserve to be exactly where you are, and that Rome wasn't conquered in a day. I admire you, and you have lots of fans on here that think the world of you.
Thank you for posting this! I'm a CNA and I am training on an Acute Medical floor. I have worked in a nursing home for over a year, but since I'm applying to nursing school I wanted some hospital experience. Even though I know what I'm doing as far as direct patient care, it's been really hectic getting used to the charting system, finding supplies, as well as doing and seeing things that aren't typical of nursing homes. I have really been doubting myself as an aide, and a potential nurse.
Hi! Im also an ICU nurse in Arizona. Glad I found your channel. When I transferred to ICU I felt the same way, I didn't think I was smart enough or that I could do it. I think it's really difficult to go from being an expert in our field of nursing to being a beginner and starting over. ICU in itself is hard and it's definitely not for everyone. we have so much autonomy as nurses even if we like to think we don't, we make decision and intervene constantly. It sounds like you are going through normal growing pains of becoming an excellent ICU nurse!
Ashley Adkins, RN hi I just started my icu duty 4 months ago, thanks for sharing your feelings because i’ve felt the same wAy, Until now im still thinking will I ever survive this area, never had experience with adult icu before but i’m a nicu nurse for 7 years, everything is totally different and i’ve never felt stupid as this before, information is too overwhelming that causes me too much stressed. Hope you’re doing fine
Planning on binging your whole channel over the next year (still a baby nursing student, but somehow graduating in 8 months) and even though I've tried to talk myself out of it, know someday I want to be an ICU nurse. You're so easy to listen to and genuine!
Thank you so much for honesty and raw emotions and vulnerability in this video. I am currently in nursing school ad haven't done an ICU rotation yet, however, today was my first day of ever feeling so defeated with how the day went. Seeing your video made me understand that these are normal feelings that just need to be processed so I can learn, grow, and keep moving on. Today was the first time I even asked myself, "Am I even smart enough for this? Am I cut out for this? Do I even have what it takes?" They were rattling feelings and thoughts to experience but it is my dream to become a Nurse and your video gave me encouragement to keep pushing. Thank you!
I just wanted to say thank you so much for sharing this! I just started working in the Neuro ICU at a Boston hospital as a PCA and it was so nice to hear that I was not alone in my feelings of defeat after my first few shifts.
Hi I'm Aaron, first semester nursing student. I think the way that you're feeling is completely normal. It is truly a testament of how good of a nurse you are. Imagine how many nurses leave situations like that and could care less about how the patient felt or how the family felt. You are thinking, feeling, and acting in a way that all nurses should in situations like the one you explained. If the world had 1,000,000 more nurses with your level of caring and compassion... You are handling the situation the right way; reflecting and evaluating. Be blessed, keep your spirits uplifted, and enjoy your second day!!!
As a fellow nurse, you are an inspiration to me with how much you truly love nursing. We've all had days like this (I don't work in ICU) but give it time. You seem like an intelligent nurse, and I know you CAN do it and you are SMART ENOUGH! !!! Keep your head up :)
Thank you for posting this video. I just made the move from oncology to ICU and I keep wondering if I made the right decision every single shift. I'm glad to know that this is considered normal and this feeling will pass.
I just started in Neuro ICU at a level 1 trauma center after being on a med surg floor in a level 2 trauma center, and I feel this video so much. I've never felt so incompetent in my entire life as I have in the past few days on the floor. I know it will get better, I just want to be the best possible nurse and I feel like I'm not being a good nurse right now.
Thank you for sharing Ashley. I'm a new grad nurse, just finished my 3rd week in med surg. Today was one of those days for me, where I asked my self too, if I'm smart enough for this. I feel so down too. It made me feel a somewhat better hearing you say that it's normal to feel this way. Hope it all gets better for you soon!
Thank you for this. I am currently in nursing school now and my goal is to be a critical nurse whether that is in the ICU or ER. I love having this truthful insight! I worked on an ICU floor as a CNA and truly believe this is what I want but sometimes in the back of my head there is this little voice that keeps telling me are you sure you can handle being a critical care nurse? I don't think you are smart enough....and you just made me feel better knowing that everyone gets nervous working such a high acuity job and it's a matter of believing in yourself and your knowledge!! GO AWAY VOICE!! lol 🙌🏾👍🏾💪🏾
Hey Ashley, just remember "This, too, shall pass". I always find it the worst if I've had a bad day at work right before days off, I'm just left thinking and obsessing over the bad things instead of going right back in the next day and making it better, so it kind of drags on a bit. But it will definitely be much better at your second shift :) And I personally think it's a good sign that you're questioning your ability/if you're cut out for the job because it shows that a) you realize there is some room for improvement and can tackle those things to improve your practice, and b) it shows you really care about how you perform, not just for yourself, but especially for the health and safety of your patients. I've heard a physician say it's a bad sign when a healthcare professional thinks they know everything or isn't worried from time to time. So get back at it and dominate your second shift :)
I just wanted to say thank you very much for posting this video. The true, raw emotions really makes it real. As someone who's seriously looking into Nursing as a career, this video only solidifies the fact that this may be what I want to do for the rest of my life. It sounds hard, but nothing good in life comes easy. I can really tell you care about what you do, and that's awesome. Thank you very much.
Hi ashley i was an ICU intern for five weeks as a nursing student. The first week I was burning, I was never an aide or experience but at the end I got to pick it up and learned to love the stress and critical thinking Give it time you are so smart
This is so so reassuring to learn.. I am still only a student, in my final placement before my new grad year and in NICU! I LOVE it and feel confident in it... until you throw in an emergency, a new procedure or a new PATIENT! I feel lost and like I couldn't do it alone... yet by the end of the shift I can give a full handover easy because I've had eight hours to get to know everything about the wee bubs that I need to! So thank you!
Thank you so much for this! I so needed some uplifting words after my very first shift as a New Nurse. I came home feeling extremely defeated last night but your right. We can only go up from here and I CAN do this. Thank you Ashley for making feel better and helping me to realize that I'm not out here alone❤
You got this Ashley! I've been an auditor for 10 years and I'm at a new audit job myself and even after 10 years in the field I still wonder if I'm smart enough or cut out to be doing what I'm doing. Nursing is a potential second career choice and I'm still doing prereqs to see if it's a career that I'm cut out for (and your videos have helped me a lot, so thank you!). But I think what I'm trying to say is that you're not alone in feeling down or depressed. New jobs always have learning curves and sometimes the best gigs have the steepest curves. That feeling of being lost and unsure of yourself is completely normal. You are smart and more than capable of doing this. And you got all of us rooting for you!
Hi Ashley! I had my first night orientation in the ICU last night. it was way different and i felt like i dont know what im doing and really felt defeated as you've mentioned. But i have an awesome senior nurse that orients me during this stage and I survived! :) Looking forward to be an expert in this field.
Hi from the UK! I've just started on ITU and I'm a newly qualified too. I feel like I literally don't know anything- it's really deflating. I know it's going to get better in time, I'm only 3 weeks in. Already I've learned a lot of new things, but after a bad shift it really knocks my confidence and I go home and really worry about whether I can do it here. Thanks for this video, it's nice to know that they are others who have been through or are going through the same thing
Hey Ashley, I love what Nickasarbata said...exactly what I had in mind. I am in week 5 of my new neuro trauma ICU job in a level I trauma hospital, and I felt the same exact way on my first day. I still have doubts once in a while, but hearing other people's experiences makes me feel positive that I am meant to be where I am. You are a smart nurse, and you'll look back in a month or 2 and see how far you have come :), all the best! can't wait to hear more stories
Thanks for posting this. Currently going through similar thing, had a bad shift and hv felt defeated since, tempted to give in the towel but I remember that everything is hard at first, that I'm not the only going through this, and that's part of growing/learning. Doesn't happen over night. It's by consistently learning, facing things...
Keep pushing through! I feel like it would be a problem if you WEREN'T stressed after your first day. Can't wait to see you progress and grow as an ICU nurse :)
Hi Ashley, We have a similar amount of nursing experience. I just started training on an ICU this week. Previously I worked on a med-surg floor for 15 months and had never worked on an ICU. I started taking a patient this week and I'm fumbling on things that I know how to do like give report - I feel like a new grad all over again. I keep doubting myself and it's so frustrating. There are many things I don't know but the things I have done before, I feel like I'm learning to walk again. Maybe it's my nerves getting to me. Thanks for uploading this video. It made me feel better knowing that someone else is going through this.
I definitely feel like a new grad again! I kept thinking...I admire true new grads who go into the ICU with no experience! Then you would be learning basic things like how to give report, how to chart, etc AND taking care of critical patients.
I was hospitalized at athe ICU of a major hospital a few years ago suffering from sepsis.I had blackish material oozing from my rectum all night as well as urine soaking me No one kept me clean throufhout the night I observed a male nurse chasing a female around the nursing station In the morning a nurse came to clean me up and she put me in a wheelchair to take me to a ward We both heard this male nurse say loudly "Let 'go out and get some real p---y" I reported him and I was harassed by the nursing staff for the rest of my stay (about a week) Lady you are getting exactly what you deserve
Hey Ashley I really appreciate you doing these videos, im currently an LVN thinking about getting my RN, but hesitant at the time. im working at at snf as a charge nurse, somedays are great and I love my job but others I feel exactly the same way, the pressure of the family ; even when your doing all you can, and everything else it's just really stressful and making me doubt if I should continue pursuing my RN. At times I think this is not ment for me, or im just not good enough but listening to you makes me realize im not the only one feelig this way and motivates me to get my RN. Thank you.
Youll be alright once you get use to it.I also felt that before.Specially coz u dont know where evrything is and what to do but on the way it will go smooth for you! cheer up!
do you have personal liability insurance that includes malpractice? im a nursing assistant with a home health nursing registry and they require I have it. it cost $50 a year with NSO. I remember someone saying that nurses in high acuity fields should be protected.....
I just started my RN journey by doing my prerequisites. Currently doing A&P class. I feel so defeated. It's to much information. I just feel like impending doom as each day passes getting closer to my tests.....depressed
Hey Ashley..I'm starting an externship for phlebotomy in a few weeks at I was lucky enough to land a great externship at one of the best hospitals where I live After that I plan to apply to another one in the ICU or ER unit Do you have any tips for someone in LAB who's just starting off?
I give kudos to - anyone - who works in a hospital. I do home health, but mostly hospice, and I don't think I would be able to work in such a high paced place like that or the ER. To each their own, but man the paperwork kills me xD
Niki Gurle think it should be fine even if they do cuz she didn't break patient confidentiality, just expressed her experience, something common in nursing too
I was a float pool medsurge nurse out of school and then an ER psych nurse for a year while I got my Psych NP. I am going back to nursing so my boyfriend and I can travel after I gain two years experience. I have an interview for icu next week. I am so nervous I don’t know anything about vents and all the diffenerent drips and while I feel as though I am a quick learner I do feel like this will be a humbling and scary experience. I looked at the link for resources above and it’s a great start. Do you have any other resources or videos that are helpful for understanding different vent settings and drips and anything to do with ICU?
You're lucky you have a nice preceptor. I am unfortunate to work in a hospital where most of my colleagues hate my guts and would like to set me up to fail. The routine is not complicated, however, the disorganization, lack of supplies, preceptors who hate your guts make it complicated. Thankfully, all my patients are nice and decent. It is the other nurses who are antisocial and angry all the time.
Ugh I can so relate. I am in nursing school currently, and my nurse was absolutely horrid to me today during clinicals. It really made my day so much more difficult and distressing. The "eat your young" mantra seems to be true for some nurses and it really hit my self esteem and confidence today. I feel like I still need to process some more of the feelings I had that arose today within myself due to the situation, but I think just planning for it to happen every-time (plan for the worst and hope for the best) may help me for the future. I only wonder if that way of thinking will help me improve because the treatment I received really threw me off guard (self esteem and confidence) and it was a domino effect for the rest of the day. If you have any other tips for survival with this I'd appreciate hearing your advice/input.
I've been an RN for 6 years and just now starting ICU after starting off on a medical floor then being in rehab nursing for the last 3.5 years so I consider myself to be extremely rusty! My first ICU shift two days ago was not at all bad but whoa do I have to brush up on EVERYTHING! Good luck to you and know you are special!
what state do you work in? i worked in a combination med-surg and tele, as well as step-down department here in central california, it's also small community hospital, sure they would float me to ICU, but just like you said, the acuity of a small community hospital ICU vs a major big hospital ICU patient is so different. we don't get too many very sick ICU patient, if that's even possible. sure they are sick and critical, but not on the same level. you'll do fine, be patient, give it time, gain your experience and get out lol :)
when i face stress i ..100% i know it gonna be okay u will adapt very quickly once you be expose yourself to stress over and over again i almost laughed hearing ur story ☺ i dont think u felt this way because of anything .. and toxic teachers whatever they are caused this to you by not sharing informations u really need and must know iformation add to this .. students are immature .. they dont really know whats going on the primary goal of many courses you take is to make you empath , and emotional schools love and admire teachers who teach well and insist that you student be perfect nursing is easy .. nobody cares .. school and grades dont reflect how good students are .. its waste of time specially when u learn thing that is easy .. btw your beautiful
You'll be fine! after some experience! You're white, you speak good English; in no time you'll be taking care of the very sick, you'll be in charge, and you'll be going up the ladder. Some people, even after many years experience in the ICU are still treated as new grads and their progress is constantly being blocked by other more vocal and influential people
For what it's worth, I can assure you that every single ICU nurse feels the same way you do on their first day. You'll do great. Just allow yourself to be okay with feeling really stupid for quite a long time, and ask a lot of questions every day. And for what it's worth, I think the "Can I do this, can I handle this, am I smart enough?" feelings stick around for a good while. I'm finishing up my second year in ICU and still have plenty of those days. You'll do great, just give it some time!
Thank you for the inspiration!
nickasarbata thank you for your comment!!
I really need to hear this, thank you.
I'm an ICU tech and I just had my first week last week. Im an RN student as well. I think I got "culture shock" because I went home, cried and thought I am way too dumb to ever be a critical care nurse. Thank you for writing this and giving me hope for my future. I know I am weak in a self esteem dept but I want to challenge myself and achieve success in the unit I'm on now. This is the hardest thing I'll ever do and I know that but I'm determined to not give up on this.
This is really helpful. Thank you for sharing.
I find myself coming back to this video several times per week. I just started in an ICU at a level 1 trauma center and have never felt so incompetent in my entire life. It's encouraging to know that it's normal to feel this way and that it gets easier. Thank you so much for you videos!!
Hey...I felt EXACTLY the same way for 2 years when I first started out in ICU. That pit in my stomach before my shift, feeling like I'm going to jump out of my skin, the list goes on. I have never been so humbled in my life. You've got a leg up because you've already been a nurse before! Sending you good vibes--it will get better.
I appreciate you posting this. As a new nurse it gives me a little confidence that I'm not the only one going through all this!
Started my first day as a patient care tech (with no prior experience) in the ED today. I came home feeling defeated and down, then remembered this video of yours. Feeling a little better after reminding myself that “we’ve all been there.” Thanks again for sharing this experience 💛
I'm an ICU tech and I just had my first week last week. Im an RN student as well. I think I got "culture shock" because I went home, cried and thought I am way too dumb to ever be a critical care nurse. Thank you for writing about your experience in the ED on your first day, and giving me hope for my future. I know I am weak in a self esteem dept but I want to challenge myself and achieve success in the unit I'm on now. Where are you now and how are you doing?
Ashley you are good enough. everything in the beginning is always hard, especially when dealing with critical people/situations. Soon we will be watching videos on how much you love your job and what a good choice you have made.
Thank you!!!!!!!!! Yes, I sense more positive videos in the future. ;)
Hope you feeling better.
thank you for what you do. I was in a coma 7 days and vented for 10. I had pneumonia and had general anesthesia..if it wasn't for girls like you I'd had died.
Hi Ashley! I just started my first nursing job as a new grad RN on a med oncology floor and it is so comforting to know that we all go through these experiences, with similar thoughts and feelings. I've looked up to you since I first started watching your channel and wanted to thank you for sharing your stories with all of us. Not only are we rooting for you but we are proud of you and what you are doing for all of us in this nursing community. Lifelong learning is something we as nurses need to embrace with open minds in order to really make a difference and grow as professionals even if it makes us doubtful and uncomfortable. Thank you for sharing, you are an amazing nurse and will only become more great as time goes by!
Sincerely,
a baby nurse
THANK YOU!! Good luck in your job! :)
Thank you so much for posting this video and being so raw with your emotions. I'm currently on orientation in a busy ICU and I'm really struggling to find my confidence. I feel defeated after almost every shift. It just helps to hear that I'm not the only one going through the same type of issues = )
I know what you mean..I'm a nursing student hopeful, and while I haven't felt defeated in nursing, I've felt defeated in one way or another in other areas of life. I know, and you know, that this is just a hump that you'll get over. The issue is that it feels so uncomfortable to be in this grey space, but we HAVE to go through it. You are being tested, and it's how you come out after all this that determines your greatness in the field. Honestly, I think the best of the best have gone through this, and several times. But they remained optimistic, they reminded themselves every day of the hurdles that they've overcome, and looked ahead to the future with determination. Go get a manicure, put on some makeup, get your favorite drink, look at your graduation pictures, your acceptance to Nursing School letters, and you'll remember that you deserve to be exactly where you are, and that Rome wasn't conquered in a day. I admire you, and you have lots of fans on here that think the world of you.
Wow!!! Thank you so much. You're absolutely right about being in the "grey" space. :)
Thank you for posting this! I'm a CNA and I am training on an Acute Medical floor. I have worked in a nursing home for over a year, but since I'm applying to nursing school I wanted some hospital experience. Even though I know what I'm doing as far as direct patient care, it's been really hectic getting used to the charting system, finding supplies, as well as doing and seeing things that aren't typical of nursing homes. I have really been doubting myself as an aide, and a potential nurse.
Hi! Im also an ICU nurse in Arizona. Glad I found your channel. When I transferred to ICU I felt the same way, I didn't think I was smart enough or that I could do it. I think it's really difficult to go from being an expert in our field of nursing to being a beginner and starting over. ICU in itself is hard and it's definitely not for everyone. we have so much autonomy as nurses even if we like to think we don't, we make decision and intervene constantly. It sounds like you are going through normal growing pains of becoming an excellent ICU nurse!
Thanks for sharing! I wonder if we will ever cross paths one day!
Ashley Adkins, RN hi I just started my icu duty 4 months ago, thanks for sharing your feelings because i’ve felt the same wAy, Until now im still thinking will I ever survive this area, never had experience with adult icu before but i’m a nicu nurse for 7 years, everything is totally different and i’ve never felt stupid as this before, information is too overwhelming that causes me too much stressed. Hope you’re doing fine
Can you give us an update on how your doing and loving your job now after 6 years?
Planning on binging your whole channel over the next year (still a baby nursing student, but somehow graduating in 8 months) and even though I've tried to talk myself out of it, know someday I want to be an ICU nurse. You're so easy to listen to and genuine!
Thank you so much for honesty and raw emotions and vulnerability in this video. I am currently in nursing school ad haven't done an ICU rotation yet, however, today was my first day of ever feeling so defeated with how the day went. Seeing your video made me understand that these are normal feelings that just need to be processed so I can learn, grow, and keep moving on. Today was the first time I even asked myself, "Am I even smart enough for this? Am I cut out for this? Do I even have what it takes?" They were rattling feelings and thoughts to experience but it is my dream to become a Nurse and your video gave me encouragement to keep pushing. Thank you!
I just wanted to say thank you so much for sharing this! I just started working in the Neuro ICU at a Boston hospital as a PCA and it was so nice to hear that I was not alone in my feelings of defeat after my first few shifts.
Hi I'm Aaron, first semester nursing student. I think the way that you're feeling is completely normal. It is truly a testament of how good of a nurse you are. Imagine how many nurses leave situations like that and could care less about how the patient felt or how the family felt. You are thinking, feeling, and acting in a way that all nurses should in situations like the one you explained. If the world had 1,000,000 more nurses with your level of caring and compassion... You are handling the situation the right way; reflecting and evaluating. Be blessed, keep your spirits uplifted, and enjoy your second day!!!
Thanks, Aaron!!!
As a fellow nurse, you are an inspiration to me with how much you truly love nursing. We've all had days like this (I don't work in ICU) but give it time. You seem like an intelligent nurse, and I know you CAN do it and you are SMART ENOUGH! !!! Keep your head up :)
THANK YOU!!!
Love these videos!! I'm a first year nursing student, and your advice/ nursing vlogs help so much!
❤️❤️❤️❤️
We're cheering for you!
Thank you for posting this video. I just made the move from oncology to ICU and I keep wondering if I made the right decision every single shift. I'm glad to know that this is considered normal and this feeling will pass.
I just started in Neuro ICU at a level 1 trauma center after being on a med surg floor in a level 2 trauma center, and I feel this video so much. I've never felt so incompetent in my entire life as I have in the past few days on the floor. I know it will get better, I just want to be the best possible nurse and I feel like I'm not being a good nurse right now.
Thank you for sharing Ashley. I'm a new grad nurse, just finished my 3rd week in med surg. Today was one of those days for me, where I asked my self too, if I'm smart enough for this. I feel so down too. It made me feel a somewhat better hearing you say that it's normal to feel this way. Hope it all gets better for you soon!
I think it is good that we feel this way occasionally, because it means we are being challenged and growing!
Thank you for this. I am currently in nursing school now and my goal is to be a critical nurse whether that is in the ICU or ER. I love having this truthful insight! I worked on an ICU floor as a CNA and truly believe this is what I want but sometimes in the back of my head there is this little voice that keeps telling me are you sure you can handle being a critical care nurse? I don't think you are smart enough....and you just made me feel better knowing that everyone gets nervous working such a high acuity job and it's a matter of believing in yourself and your knowledge!! GO AWAY VOICE!! lol 🙌🏾👍🏾💪🏾
😭😭😭😭😭 And now two years later Im starting my first RN position on a Cardioogy unit tomorrow!!! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾🤗🤗💝💝
@@RGLover641 hope it's going well :)
Hey Ashley, just remember "This, too, shall pass". I always find it the worst if I've had a bad day at work right before days off, I'm just left thinking and obsessing over the bad things instead of going right back in the next day and making it better, so it kind of drags on a bit. But it will definitely be much better at your second shift :) And I personally think it's a good sign that you're questioning your ability/if you're cut out for the job because it shows that a) you realize there is some room for improvement and can tackle those things to improve your practice, and b) it shows you really care about how you perform, not just for yourself, but especially for the health and safety of your patients. I've heard a physician say it's a bad sign when a healthcare professional thinks they know everything or isn't worried from time to time. So get back at it and dominate your second shift :)
THANK YOU!!!
Just graduated nursing school and went straight into ICU, I agree with everything you r saying
So, did it get easier? I’m a new nurse fixing to start neuro icu. Any advice?
I just wanted to say thank you very much for posting this video. The true, raw emotions really makes it real. As someone who's seriously looking into Nursing as a career, this video only solidifies the fact that this may be what I want to do for the rest of my life. It sounds hard, but nothing good in life comes easy. I can really tell you care about what you do, and that's awesome. Thank you very much.
Also, did it get better/easier? How is it now?
Hi ashley i was an ICU intern for five weeks as a nursing student. The first week I was burning, I was never an aide or experience but at the end I got to pick it up and learned to love the stress and critical thinking Give it time you are so smart
Thank you for sharing! :)
This is so so reassuring to learn.. I am still only a student, in my final placement before my new grad year and in NICU! I LOVE it and feel confident in it... until you throw in an emergency, a new procedure or a new PATIENT! I feel lost and like I couldn't do it alone... yet by the end of the shift I can give a full handover easy because I've had eight hours to get to know everything about the wee bubs that I need to! So thank you!
Thank you for sharing!!!
Thank you so much for this! I so needed some uplifting words after my very first shift as a New Nurse. I came home feeling extremely defeated last night but your right. We can only go up from here and I CAN do this. Thank you Ashley for making feel better and helping me to realize that I'm not out here alone❤
You got this Ashley! I've been an auditor for 10 years and I'm at a new audit job myself and even after 10 years in the field I still wonder if I'm smart enough or cut out to be doing what I'm doing. Nursing is a potential second career choice and I'm still doing prereqs to see if it's a career that I'm cut out for (and your videos have helped me a lot, so thank you!). But I think what I'm trying to say is that you're not alone in feeling down or depressed. New jobs always have learning curves and sometimes the best gigs have the steepest curves. That feeling of being lost and unsure of yourself is completely normal. You are smart and more than capable of doing this. And you got all of us rooting for you!
THANK YOU!!
Hi Ashley! I had my first night orientation in the ICU last night. it was way different and i felt like i dont know what im doing and really felt defeated as you've mentioned. But i have an awesome senior nurse that orients me during this stage and I survived! :) Looking forward to be an expert in this field.
I appreciate the realness in this video. Question: How many patients were you assigned your first day in the ICU?
2, but with a preceptor!
Hi from the UK! I've just started on ITU and I'm a newly qualified too. I feel like I literally don't know anything- it's really deflating. I know it's going to get better in time, I'm only 3 weeks in. Already I've learned a lot of new things, but after a bad shift it really knocks my confidence and I go home and really worry about whether I can do it here. Thanks for this video, it's nice to know that they are others who have been through or are going through the same thing
Thank you for sharing this. U can do it Ashley. Were cheering for you!
Hey Ashley, I love what Nickasarbata said...exactly what I had in mind. I am in week 5 of my new neuro trauma ICU job in a level I trauma hospital, and I felt the same exact way on my first day. I still have doubts once in a while, but hearing other people's experiences makes me feel positive that I am meant to be where I am. You are a smart nurse, and you'll look back in a month or 2 and see how far you have come :), all the best! can't wait to hear more stories
THANK YOU, Jackie!!!
i feel the same way!!huhu i feel so depressed and frustrated..😭😭
Thanks for posting this. Currently going through similar thing, had a bad shift and hv felt defeated since, tempted to give in the towel but I remember that everything is hard at first, that I'm not the only going through this, and that's part of growing/learning. Doesn't happen over night. It's by consistently learning, facing things...
Thanks for sharing and reflecting!
I'll be waiting to hear from you! I really hope everything goes better! you are amazing and strong! love your advice and videos😊💕💕
Fixing to start neurotrauma ICU and I’m pretty concerned about it...
im doing my rn-bsn program + working as an new icu rn grad... I just started and feeling super nervous but mostly excited !!!
My God, when I visit people in the ICU and see all the stuff there that the nurses have to deal with....no thanks. I give you lots of credit.
Keep pushing through! I feel like it would be a problem if you WEREN'T stressed after your first day. Can't wait to see you progress and grow as an ICU nurse :)
THANK YOU!
Hi Ashley,
We have a similar amount of nursing experience. I just started training on an ICU this week. Previously I worked on a med-surg floor for 15 months and had never worked on an ICU. I started taking a patient this week and I'm fumbling on things that I know how to do like give report - I feel like a new grad all over again. I keep doubting myself and it's so frustrating. There are many things I don't know but the things I have done before, I feel like I'm learning to walk again. Maybe it's my nerves getting to me. Thanks for uploading this video. It made me feel better knowing that someone else is going through this.
I definitely feel like a new grad again! I kept thinking...I admire true new grads who go into the ICU with no experience! Then you would be learning basic things like how to give report, how to chart, etc AND taking care of critical patients.
Thank you for your honesty. it reminds me that at the end of the day, though nurses, we are human.
We are definitely human! Most of us at least. :)
😆 pupper playing in the background keeps making me giggle
Awesome vid, btw
I was hospitalized at athe ICU of a major hospital a few years ago suffering from sepsis.I had blackish material oozing from my rectum all night as well as urine soaking me
No one kept me clean throufhout the night
I observed a male nurse chasing a female around the nursing station
In the morning a nurse came to clean me up and she put me in a wheelchair to take me to a ward
We both heard this male nurse say loudly "Let 'go out and get some real p---y"
I reported him and I was harassed by the nursing staff for the rest of my stay (about a week)
Lady you are getting exactly what you deserve
Hey Ashley I really appreciate you doing these videos, im currently an LVN thinking about getting my RN, but hesitant at the time. im working at at snf as a charge nurse, somedays are great and I love my job but others I feel exactly the same way, the pressure of the family ; even when your doing all you can, and everything else it's just really stressful and making me doubt if I should continue pursuing my RN. At times I think this is not ment for me, or im just not good enough but listening to you makes me realize im not the only one feelig this way and motivates me to get my RN. Thank you.
Youll be alright once you get use to it.I also felt that before.Specially coz u dont know where evrything is and what to do but on the way it will go smooth for you! cheer up!
❤️💙❤️💙
do you have personal liability insurance that includes malpractice? im a nursing assistant with a home health nursing registry and they require I have it. it cost $50 a year with NSO. I remember someone saying that nurses in high acuity fields should be protected.....
I do not. :)
+Ashley Adkins, RN Maybe you should look into it. im just a nursing assistant so I can't even imagine a RN without it...
Ashley Adkins, RN do you have liability insurance yet? Lol just curious.
I just started my RN journey by doing my prerequisites. Currently doing A&P class. I feel so defeated. It's to much information. I just feel like impending doom as each day passes getting closer to my tests.....depressed
Hey Ashley..I'm starting an externship for phlebotomy in a few weeks at I was lucky enough to land a great externship at one of the best hospitals where I live
After that I plan to apply to another one in the ICU or ER unit
Do you have any tips for someone in LAB who's just starting off?
I feel you.. I wanna hug you while watching this vid..
I give kudos to - anyone - who works in a hospital. I do home health, but mostly hospice, and I don't think I would be able to work in such a high paced place like that or the ER. To each their own, but man the paperwork kills me xD
LOL! It takes all kinds to go around. :)
How are you now? Did you continue being an icu nurse? I feel you, i am doubting myself, i dont know if i can continue, i am so stress.
You're gonna do great!! Each passing day will be easier.
THANKS!! A comment other than a thumbs up and smiley?!?
dont you worry that someone will see this from your job? Either or we all go through this trust me.
Niki Gurle think it should be fine even if they do cuz she didn't break patient confidentiality, just expressed her experience, something common in nursing too
I was a float pool medsurge nurse out of school and then an ER psych nurse for a year while I got my Psych NP. I am going back to nursing so my boyfriend and I can travel after I gain two years experience. I have an interview for icu next week. I am so nervous I don’t know anything about vents and all the diffenerent drips and while I feel as though I am a quick learner I do feel like this will be a humbling and scary experience. I looked at the link for resources above and it’s a great start. Do you have any other resources or videos that are helpful for understanding different vent settings and drips and anything to do with ICU?
you are such an inspiration xx fair play. It's great to reflect
And look at you 6 years later 🫶🏾
You're lucky you have a nice preceptor. I am unfortunate to work in a hospital where most of my colleagues hate my guts and would like to set me up to fail. The routine is not complicated, however, the disorganization, lack of supplies, preceptors who hate your guts make it complicated. Thankfully, all my patients are nice and decent. It is the other nurses who are antisocial and angry all the time.
Ugh I can so relate. I am in nursing school currently, and my nurse was absolutely horrid to me today during clinicals. It really made my day so much more difficult and distressing. The "eat your young" mantra seems to be true for some nurses and it really hit my self esteem and confidence today. I feel like I still need to process some more of the feelings I had that arose today within myself due to the situation, but I think just planning for it to happen every-time (plan for the worst and hope for the best) may help me for the future. I only wonder if that way of thinking will help me improve because the treatment I received really threw me off guard (self esteem and confidence) and it was a domino effect for the rest of the day. If you have any other tips for survival with this I'd appreciate hearing your advice/input.
I've been an RN for 6 years and just now starting ICU after starting off on a medical floor then being in rehab nursing for the last 3.5 years so I consider myself to be extremely rusty! My first ICU shift two days ago was not at all bad but whoa do I have to brush up on EVERYTHING! Good luck to you and know you are special!
All the best. I hope your next shift will be better. What type of ICU are you working in?
Medical surgical :)
Thank you, Ashley, for sharing. I will keep you in my prayers. Keep your head up! :)
Thank you for saving lives 🤗
Oh btw, what glasses are you wearing?? So cute. I'm trying to find a good pair with that style!! 😬😬
They are from walmart's eye center!
How do we prepare?
I think you will do great. Just keep going :)
I'm teaching myself shorthand b/c I kind of have a short attn span. thx for sharing
If anyone can do it, you can!
what state do you work in? i worked in a combination med-surg and tele, as well as step-down department here in central california, it's also small community hospital, sure they would float me to ICU, but just like you said, the acuity of a small community hospital ICU vs a major big hospital ICU patient is so different. we don't get too many very sick ICU patient, if that's even possible. sure they are sick and critical, but not on the same level.
you'll do fine, be patient, give it time, gain your experience and get out lol :)
I work in AZ. :)
You guys use EPIC?
Did you last in icu?
great video😊 P.S you will get used to everything and you will be great👍👍
I sure hope so! ;)
Thank you for sharing!!! 😊
Every first day on the job is harrd. Im sure it got better from there
when i face stress i ..100% i know it gonna be okay
u will adapt very quickly once you be expose yourself to stress over and over again
i almost laughed hearing ur story ☺
i dont think u felt this way because of anything .. and toxic teachers whatever they are caused this to you by not sharing informations u really need and must know iformation
add to this .. students are immature .. they dont really know whats going on
the primary goal of many courses you take is to make you empath , and emotional
schools love and admire teachers who teach well and insist that you student be perfect
nursing is easy .. nobody cares .. school and grades dont reflect how good students are .. its waste of time specially when u learn thing that is easy ..
btw your beautiful
Sounds like you’re using Sunrise. I hate that shit
beautiful
THANKS!
Good vid
You can do ittttt :)
👍🙂
👍🏻😬
You'll be fine! after some experience! You're white, you speak good English; in no time you'll be taking care of the very sick, you'll be in charge, and you'll be going up the ladder. Some people, even after many years experience in the ICU are still treated as new grads and their progress is constantly being blocked by other more vocal and influential people
Why mention her race? Does her being white make her better than you or any other race of nurse?
Your comment is so ODD.
Jessica Brown wooooosh! The point of her comment went completely over your head.
Politics. It’s all politics.
sansann2412 White privilege ain't a thing honey. Sorry.
you look so tired
I am tired!!
Ashley, I've been doing critical care for about 11 years now it's a tough unit so don't feel down on yourself it will get easier! You'll be great!
Even without the makeup, you're still rather hot...especially when you smile