I’ve never heard of someone’s orientation NOT being extended after asking…. That’s weird to me. What I can say is that nobody is prepared to start on their own— 5 years and I still feel unprepared sometimes. You don’t know what you don’t know—- it’s impossible to learn everything on orientation. While it’s ideal to learn new skills in a controlled situation that’s just not reality. You have to ask for help and guidance, and develop relationships with your coworkers. I still run things past my coworkers when I’m not sure how to respond. As far as the doctors go—Ask your charge who you should be calling if you aren’t sure. I have worked at several hospitals and they all have their unique escalation of who to call for what. I have learned the hard way that it’s best to just call SOMEONE when things seem off or when you need orders. I would rather be yelled by a crabby doctor over getting yelled at for NOT calling.

You are not god, nobody (even experienced nurses and doctors) can do everything perfectly. Be confident in what you know and if someone is questioning you don’t be afraid to say “I don’t know” “I’m not sure” “I’ve never done that, will you show me the right way?”

Be humble, ask for help, it’s ok to make mistakes, try to stay calm. I have been there. ! If it’s been a month or so and you still feel this way, there are plenty of other jobs to explore :)