Every nurse remembers their first few months in practice. The moment when the reality of the profession truly sets in, the responsibility, the fast pace, and the realization that the patients and families in front of you are relying on your knowledge and judgment. It is an exciting time, but it can also be one of the most challenging transitions in a nurse’s career.
For many new nurses, the shift from nursing school to clinical practice can feel overwhelming. While education provides a strong foundation, the real learning happens at the bedside. New nurses are suddenly balancing patient care, critical thinking, time management, communication with interdisciplinary teams, and the emotional weight that often comes with caring for people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Many quickly realize how different the responsibility of nursing feels when it is their own license and clinical judgment on the line, compared to the experience of clinicals and externships.
As a new-to-practice ICU nurse, I see firsthand how quickly nurses are asked to take on significant responsibility. Whether managing complex treatments or supporting families through critical situations, nurses early in their careers often find themselves navigating high-pressure environments. These skills take time to develop, and that growth is made possible through mentorship, teamwork, and supportive leadership. Experienced nurses play a critical role during this stage of professional development. Encouraging questions, sharing knowledge, and creating a culture where learning is welcomed can make a tremendous difference in how a new nurse grows in their confidence and practice.
At the same time, new-to-practice nurses bring valuable perspectives to healthcare teams. Many enter the workforce with strong knowledge of evidence-based practice, familiarity with new technology, and a willingness to challenge long-standing practices that may no longer serve patients or staff well. Their voices are important as healthcare continues to evolve.
Professional organizations such as the Oklahoma Nurses Association also provide meaningful support during these early years of practice. Through mentorship opportunities, advocacy efforts, and professional networking, organizations like ONA help ensure that nurses across Oklahoma have a voice in shaping the future of our profession. Through my role with ONA and my advocacy for nurses and patients across our state, I am constantly reminded how important it is to support those just entering the profession.
Nursing has always been a profession built on mentorship, resilience, and continuous learning. By supporting nurses early in their careers, we strengthen not only the individuals entering the profession but also the future of nursing across Oklahoma.
If you are a new-to-practice nurse looking to connect with others navigating the same transition, consider joining the ONA Emerging Nurses Council. Our goal is to build a supportive community, create resources for early-career nurses, and provide opportunities to connect with others across Oklahoma who are passionate about growing in the profession. Let us know you would like to be involved by completing this form https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HL57KPZ
“Let us never consider ourselves finished nurses. We must be learning all of our lives.”
— Florence Nightingale
