As the new kid on the block, you're going to annoy someone: Whether it's another nurse or the unit secretary, it doesn't make much difference. There always will be people who have little patience for someone new. Or perhaps they had a bad start to their day or aren't feeling up to par. Try to apologize for whatever you did to annoy them and later come back and try to work it out calmly. Sometimes, you just have to ignore it and learn not to take things personally.

Come to work on time. That means you should arrive and be ready to work at your scheduled time, not just rushing to clock in at the exact moment. Give yourself about fifteen minutes to put away your belongings, get a cup of coffee and greet your coworkers. If you plan on this extra time, then if you occasionally encounter heavier traffic or other unforeseen situations, you should still arrive on time.

Don't call in sick unless you really are. Nursing is not a job that can wait to be done until you get there tomorrow. If you're not there for your scheduled shift, everyone else is going to have to pick up some of your work along with their own. Of course, if you are harboring germs, please keep them to yourself and don't share them with your coworkers and patients.

Come to work prepared. Have all your equipment ready to go. If you have a locker, leave things at work so they aren't forgotten on the table at home or left in your car. If you don't have a place to leave them, then utilize a backpack or other tote bag to keep them all organized. Start the day with a smile and a positive attitude. Greet your coworkers with a warm hello. But don't overdo it. Be sincere and use the person's name.

Ask for help when you need it. Offer to help if someone is in need and always say thank you. Understand your job description and learn what others' duties and roles are. Know who can do what so that you aren't asking someone to do something outside his scope of practice or job description.

Compliment coworkers on a job well done. If a patient tells you something nice about another nurse, pass the comment along to the nurse and even to your supervisor. All your coworkers are resources. Those who have been there the longest can be very valuable in educating you on the culture, history, and traditions of the facility and your particular unit.

Leave behind your attitude of “this is how we did it in school” and open your mind to different ways of doing things. However, you don't need to pick up the bad habits others may have either. Be diplomatic. You will find your way and gain the respect of your coworkers if you are warm and friendly, honest, open to suggestion and criticism, and take responsibility for your actions.