Any Advice for me as I transition to an advanced medical practitioner in the Air Force?

Col Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 23 Apr 2015 11:28:36 -0400

I am about to finish my training and become an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with a focus on critical care and trauma. While I am very excited to move to a new role, I am also very nervous about being a novice expert and take my responsibility very seriously. Any words of advice to help me make the transition, and make it smoother?

Response by COL Jean (John) F. B. made Apr 23 at 2015 11:37 AM

COL Jean (John) F. B. — Thu, 23 Apr 2015 11:37:04 -0400

First, congratulations. I am sure you will do well in this very critical specialty.

The best advice you can get is to recognize that you are a novice. Watch those around you, who you determine know what they are doing, and learn from them. Don't be afraid to ask questions or seek guidance. Pretty soon, you will assume the role of teacher and mentor to others.

Awesome job with awesome responsibility. Wishing you all the best.

Response by SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. made Apr 23 at 2015 12:04 PM

SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. — Thu, 23 Apr 2015 12:04:53 -0400

Congratulations!

Trauma medicine can be very tough on the psyche. Get into something that gets with your team members (or other peers) and do something totally different. Use this opportunity to decompress. Don't be afraid to talk about your job but be careful with who your battle buddy is .. some people can't take a joke, if you know what I mean.

In looking at your profile your history indicates you will knock it out of the park.
Just go slow and keep them eyes open and 360.

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made Apr 23 at 2015 2:04 PM

Maj Chris Nelson — Thu, 23 Apr 2015 14:04:09 -0400

You will do what you have done in every other position you have moved into... Settle in, learn who has experience, who you feel can be trusted for their decisions, start developing your own set of routines, engage your people, and develop a team that includes you in the mix! Your knowledge (and in some cases, lack of) will be your staring point. Flourish from there! Congrats on your upcoming graduation!