How to Succeed in the US as a Foreign Nurse
By dashg
For decades, there’s been an influx of foreign born and educated nurses who come to the US to practice their profession. The Philippines, India, Canada are among the top countries filling the country’s current nursing shortage. Often, due to differences in culture and training, these nurses find it difficult to adjust. Here are a few tips to overcome these difficulties.
Step 1 BE CONFIDENT.
Sell yourself. Whether a seasoned RN or a spanking new nurse out of school, don’t be shy about your credentials or potential. Often foreign nurses sell themselves short in fear of sounding arrogant. Not so. Know your strengths and aim high.
Step 2 DON’T LET LANGUAGE BE A BARRIER
Even if your English isn’t perfect, don’t let that discourage you from speaking. Talk to patients, doctors and co-workers. Voice out your opinions. The more self-conscious you are about your accent, the funnier you will sound to others. You’ll find that people will actually encourage your efforts when you practice, practice, practice…
Step 3 BE PROUD OF YOUR HERITAGE
America is very diverse. Diversity is in fact encouraged. Be proud of the fact that you’re familiar with a different culture. This will help you in the workplace when dealing with a diverse population of patients. Know a foreign language? That’s a huge asset, and something you should include in your resume.
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Step 4 BE FLEXIBLE
The way America runs its healthcare system is not the same as any other country. The patients are also culturally diverse. Learn about them and adapt accordingly. The key to balanced and personalized care is flexibility. The same goes to your relationship with your peers.
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Step 5 GIVE YOURSELF TIME TO LEARN
The system is new. The equipment are new. The doctors and policies are new. No one expects you to be an expert right away. Allow yourself time to learn and make mistakes if necessary. US hospitals usually have training or transition programs for new or foreign RNs. Take advantage of them and remember — you’re not stupid; you’re just new.
Step 6 NETWORK WITH OTHER FOREIGN NURSES
Often we find support from people who’ve been in our shoes. Don’t be afraid to approach other nurses to ask for advice. A simple lunch break with someone who’s been there and done it often makes a world of difference.
Step 7 TREAT EVERYONE AS A COLLEAGUE
Unlike many countries, the whole health team in the US is treated just like that – a team. Each has a specific task toward the accomplishment of a larger goal. Treat everyone you work with with mutual respect and appreciation. At the same time, value yourself as part of a team with a distinct contribution. Remember: you’re no one’s servant; you’re no one’s boss.
TIPS and WARNINGS
As always, when in doubt, ask questions. THERE ARE NO STUPID QUESTIONS. This is especially true in a profession that deals with LIVES, where little mistakes may literally turn deadly.
This article is authored by Dashg.
source: http://www.ehow.com/how_6034386_succeed-foreign-nurse.html
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