How did you combat imposter syndrome as a new-graduate nurse? #spring23
I am a senior nursing student in the BSN program at CSUSB and I look forward to my rotation in the critical care unit. ICU/Critical care has been an area of interest coming into the nursing arena, however I appreciate it’s rigorous training, being a specialty field, and therefore feeling of being inadequate may lurk. This however does not deter my goal of beginning my career in this field, thus allowing myself to learn and absorb from nurses/experts of this esteemed profession.
#spring23
2 answers
Lorraine’s Answer
You're not alone. Nurses and other healthcare professionals often experience imposter syndrome early in their careers. There's nothing wrong with feeling this way, and it doesn't make you incompetent.
1. Discuss your concerns with your colleagues, including nurses and healthcare professionals. Likewise, find a mentor in the nursing profession who can guide and support you.
2. Don't forget to recognize your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Don't forget to celebrate your nursing accomplishments.
3. Continually learn: Nursing is a lifelong profession, and there's always more to learn. Keep up with continuing education, attend nursing conferences, and read nursing publications.
4. Take care of yourself: You'll feel better if you take care of yourself physically and emotionally. Engage in activities that bring you joy, practice mindfulness, exercise, get enough rest, eat healthy food.
Remember that transitioning into a new role can be tough, so be patient. The more you learn, the more confident and skilled you'll be.