What common concern might a newly licensed nurse express to their preceptor regarding their new role?

A common concern for newly licensed nurses is uncertainty about their ability to provide safe care. This apprehension often stems from the transition from the educational setting, where students have the opportunity to practice under supervision, to the professional environment where they are responsible for the care of real patients. New nurses may doubt their clinical skills, decision-making abilities, and overall competence, fearing that they might make mistakes that could harm patients. This concern can be amplified by the high stakes involved in nursing practice, the complexity of patient care, and the rapid pace of real-world healthcare settings.

While feeling overwhelmed by paperwork, dissatisfaction with shift assignments, and challenges with electronic health records are all valid concerns for new nurses, these issues do not typically evoke the same level of anxiety regarding patient safety. The focus on ensuring safe and effective patient care is a fundamental aspect of nursing, making it the primary concern for those just entering the profession.