The first day in a new workplace is difficult for most people, but especially for a travel nurse, who is often not only in a new work environment but may also be in an entirely new region. As if acclimating to a new set of co-workers, patients and supervisors wasn't enough, a travel nurse must also quickly learn the lay of the land and adapt to a new living situation.
Luckily, you are not alone. Thousands of other nurses have been in your shoes and have learned how to approach their first day on a new assignment. Here are a few of the tips they've provided for making the right introductions, learning the ropes and getting past that dreaded first day.
Get there early
Arriving early to your first day on the job is not only good advice for travel nurses, it is good advice across the board. Because you are likely in a new place, you may not truly understand your route to your new job or the area's traffic patterns. Give yourself ample time to get to the facility early – you're much less likely to regret being early than late. Additionally, if you are a few minutes early, it will give you an opportunity to walk around and familiarize yourself with the unit.
Take notes
You may feel bombarded by the amount of information on your first shift, so do yourself a favor and take notes on the most important facts. This is not only true for routine procedures and regulations, it applies to names and locations as well. For each person you meet, write down his or her name and a little piece of information that will help you keep everybody straight.
Relax
Although there is a lot to remember, it is important that you go in to your first shift with the right attitude. The facility you are joining is glad that you are there, and you should know that a lot of fellow nurses will be happy to help you find your footing.
You'll only have one first day at a new workplace, so just remember that you will feel more comfortable as you settle into your routine.