It’s my first day in the O.R., I’m lost and overwhelmed!
Why’d I think that I could do this job? What’s the chance I will excel?

I feel I have to prove myself, every eye is fixed on me;
I know I’m being closely watched, and I hear you whispering.

It’s my first week in the O.R., I want to get this right;
I’m trying to remember, can you give me some insight?

I can’t remember anything, can you help me find my way?
My brain feels overloaded, and I don’t know if I’m OK.

It’s my first month in the O.R., I’ve finally found a friend;
She helped me through the overwhelm; wisdom shared was a god-send.

I made it through those first hard weeks, my mentor by my side;
I’m confident I will succeed, I’m no longer terrified.

It’s my first year in the O.R., I’ve finally found my way;
I think I’ve learned a thing or two, but hear what I have to say:

Don’t forget what it was like, those days of being new,
Because somewhere along the way, that new person was you.

-Melanie Perry 2019

If you’re feeling overwhelmed today – don’t lose heart! The O.R. is definitely not an easy place to be the new person. Find a mentor. Find someone who is willing to answer your questions and will be patient with you while you learn. Unlike unicorns, nice people in the O.R. really do exist. 🙂

And if you’ve been around awhile, please don’t ever forget what it was like to be new. Offer advice. Share your wisdom and experience. Be patient as people learn. Most likely they’ll be a great addition to your O.R. team, if you’ll give them the opportunity.

Until next time,

Melanie

P.S. Are you new to the O.R. and looking for more information? Click here!