Hello Everyone~
I will soon be starting a SNE position on a oncology unit at a large hospital. This will be my first actual nursing experience and I'm very anxious to start because I am firm believer in the power of hands-on experience. This will be a unique experience because my grandmother actually stayed on this unit and it was during time that I decided to become a nurse. I can't stress enough how excited I am about this position, but along with that excitement comes nervousness & insecurity of going into unchartered territory. I'm looking for some tips for success and guidance regarding both the position (SNE) itself and working in oncology. I've done some supplemental reading about working as an oncology nurse-but I'd love some words of wisdom from "seasoned nurses" or other SNE's.
Thanks in advance!
~Crystal
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December 3rd, 2008 at 12:29 pm
Crystal,
Being a nurse extern is a wonderful opportunity for experience and confidence building. I did it and landed a job on the same oncology unit once I graduated. I learned so much and was doing everything independantly except iv starts and iv meds. I helped the other nurses out and eased their load by being willing to do whatever. It made my place secure and my relationships already in good standing once I graduated…took all the pressure off. I had the whole unit cheering me on when I took my boards and it was awesome. Just learn to do whatever you are asked, save your preceptor time, and she/he will be glad to spend the extra time to answer your questions.
December 7th, 2008 at 11:28 am
I am a new grad nurse (May 08) and I worked as a nurse extern for about a year during my senior year of nursing school. My experience was a little different as I worked in the float pool, which really helped me decide which type of environment I felt most comfortable in.
My aunt is an oncology nurse who warned me about the emotional aspect of oncology. A lot of really sick people, sad families. You have the opportunity to be such a support to these patients. She told me it is a fine line b/c you want to care for your patients, but you have to protect yourself from getting so attached to them at the same time. It is a hard balance.
My advice to you as somebody who just came out on the other side is this: take EVERY opportunity to ask questions and to see/hear/discuss/learn with anybody who will share. Ask “how” and “why” always! If the doctors aren’t busy, talk to them. Talk with the charge nurse. Find a mentor on the unit.
Also, be open to criticism. As nurses we are constantly learning, from research and from each other. Don’t be afraid to ask “How could I have handled that better?” or “What approach would you have taken?” because that will let you tap in to the other nurse’s experience.
You never know when you may see something again so take advantage of every learning opportunity! Best of luck to you!