It takes many years of schooling and hands on training to become a registered nurse, so when that first day comes it can be a bit overwhelming. You have to know how to handle the situations that come up and be ready to deal with the hospital's policies. You'll also need to know in advance what your first day will be like so you know what to expect. Some hospitals will have you jump right into the job, letting your start actual work right away. Other times you'll have to sit through some classes and go through specific training for that hospital. Whatever your situation might be, you should be prepared for your first day.



If you don't know what your first day will entail, it doesn't hurt to ask. Find out where the hospital wants you to go and what you will be doing. Obviously if you are just starting out on the floor or shadowing another nurse, you'll need to be in scrubs. For first days that are just classes it could be a bit more complicated. Most hospitals that have you go through an "orientation" period will be using that time to bring you up to speed on how that particular hospital works. Generally you won't want to be wearing scrubs because this isn't "nurse" time, it's training time. You don't want to be in uniform because you don't want to be confused as someone who is on duty. This is also the time where pictures might be taken for your ID badge so make sure you look the way you'll want people to see you.

The first day is also a good time to get to know people who will be working the same shifts as you. The shifts you work can always vary but once you get into the swing of things you'll find yourself generally working the same shift in the same place at least a few times a week. Getting to know people will let you build a professional relationship which important at a job where you are in charge of people's health. It will open up lines of communication and you could even learn new techniques from your peers and superiors.

Above all, don't let your fear control you on your first day. This will be the first time that you are working as a registered nurse to help people and there's no better feeling than making someone feel good. Times won't always be easy because unfortunately bad things do happen, but you are still bettering lives even if the outcome isn't the best. If you need help getting through your first day should a rough situation happen, ask for help. Everyone working in the hospital has shared the same experiences as you. Not only will it let you build a bond with your co-workers but they might even help you see the great things about your job and teach you to properly deal with the hard times that are to be expected in the medical field.