Aoife – Staff Nurse with Oncology

During my final placement as student nurse, I worked on Ward D9 which is an acute Oncology Unit. I loved the speciality – the ward, staff and patients. Following the CUH ‘Newly Qualified’ recruitment day, I decided to apply for a rotation position in the Oncology Department.

In May, I started back on Ward D9, this time as a staff nurse. The transition from student to staff nurse was so much easier than I thought it would be because I was returning to familiar surroundings, staff and patients. I would strongly encourage newly qualified nurses to consider CUH for their first job. Starting your career in a familiar place can ease the stress and nervousness of transitioning from student to staff nurse.

Initially, I was apprehensive about how I would cope with the increased responsibility, prioritisation and delegation. I was no longer able to say to patients and other staff ‘I am student; I will just ask a staff nurse.’ However, I am now 6 months qualified and have learned more than I could have ever imagined. I am confident when speaking to members of the multidisciplinary team and look after a group of acute patients by myself. I was told before qualifying that I would learn so much during my first year as a staff nurse and it is absolutely true.

I have finished my rotation on Ward D9 and have just started on the Oncology Day Unit. I am developing my peripheral blood taking and cannulation competencies. Over the next 6 months my aim is to complete my chemotherapy passport booklet and have the confidence to administer chemotherapy.

My advice to a newly qualified nurse is to take your time getting to grips with the transition period. Make sure to use your supernumerary shifts to gain as much experience as possible. Asking questions is the best way to learn but do not be afraid to trust your instincts if you think something is wrong. Communicating with team members is the best way to treat patients effectively and also helps to manage stress levels and work load.

Of course being newly qualified comes with its ups and downs, there will be laughter and tears. If you are struggling or have concerns you should confide in team members and management. Do not suffer in silence, we all know what it is like to start a career in nursing. There is also a great education team if more time is needed to gain competencies.

In nursing, every day is a school day and being a nurse is a lifelong learning process. Remember, after all your years training it is important to enjoy the experience!