Things Most Nurses Wish They Knew Their First Year on the Job

For most who end up in nursing, their interest in the profession begins with a desire to help people, but the first year as a nurse can feel like jumping into the deep end. While nursing school prepares you with the knowledge, the real lessons come with experience. Here are some helpful tips and advice that many nurses wish they knew before day one on the job.

You Don’t Have to Know It All Your First Day
You may feel like you should have all the answers post-graduation, but the reality is you won’t, and no one will expect you to. Most nurses will tell you: asking questions isn’t a weakness, it’s how you grow. Even the most experienced nurses ask questions often. Lean on your fellow nurses and remember that learning doesn’t stop once school ends.

Be Ready to Think on Your Feet
Nursing is anything but predictable. You’ll have to quickly learn how to pivot, troubleshoot, and make critical decisions in the moment. Good training and education are a great foundation for the critical thinking and fast-paced decision-making nurses face every day. However, no one can truly prepare you for making real-time, sometimes life-or-death decisions for people under your care. With experience, support and mentorship, it can become one of the most empowering parts of the profession.

Nursing Shifts Are Demanding — But Offer Flexibility
Long shifts can be physically and mentally exhausting, especially in the beginning. But many nurses find comfort in the built-in flexibility of a nursing schedule. Whether it’s 12-hour shifts that allow for more days off or the ability to transition to different units or schedules over time, nursing can adapt to your lifestyle.

Trust Your Gut
As a new nurse, it can be tempting to second-guess yourself, especially when you're still building confidence. But many experienced nurses will tell you: your gut instinct is a powerful clinical tool. If something doesn’t feel right from a patient’s color, a subtle change in behavior, or a nagging worry, check again or escalate it. With time, you’ll start to recognize when something is off, even before vitals reflect it.

At Baton Rouge General, we provide the tools, support, and clinical experience nurses need to grow in their roles. Whether you’re a student, a new graduate, or an experienced nurse looking for a new opportunity, our team is committed to helping you advance your career in a collaborative and supportive environment. If you are interested in a nursing career at BRG contact one of our nurse recruiters at 985-606-9061 or search for current openings here.