RN Hive Resource: How to Communicate with Confidence as a New Nurse

How to Communicate with Confidence as a New Nurse

Communication is one of the hardest parts of being a new nurse. You know the science. You know the skills. But speaking up? Asking questions? Calling the provider? Advocating for a patient?

That can feel terrifying — even more than starting an IV.

Confidence in communication doesn’t come from perfection. It comes from clarity, calm presence, and practice.

1️⃣ Why Communication Feels Hard When You’re New

As a new nurse, you’re balancing:

  • Fear of sounding inexperienced
  • Pressure to know everything
  • Uncertainty about what’s important to report
  • Not wanting to bother busy providers

You are NOT alone — this is one of the most common challenges for new nurses.

And here’s the truth:

You can be unsure and still communicate effectively.

2️⃣ The Foundation: Communicate with Purpose, Not Perfection

Before you speak, ask yourself:

  • What is the ONE thing the person needs to know?
  • Does this affect safety?
  • Is this time-sensitive?

Clear communication is not about long stories — it’s about leading with the most important detail.

This alone will make you sound more confident.

3️⃣ How to Communicate with Providers Without Fear

Use this simple structure:

  • Start with the problem
  • Give one or two important findings
  • State what you’re concerned about
  • Ask for what you need

Example:
“Hi Dr. Smith, I’m calling about Mr. Lopez in 302. His respiratory rate jumped from 18 to 30 in the last hour and he’s using accessory muscles. I’m concerned he’s tiring out. Can you evaluate him?”

Short. Clear. Respectful. Confident.

You don’t need fancy language — you just need to be direct.

4️⃣ How to Speak with Patients and Families

Patients don’t remember medical instructions. They remember how you made them feel.

Try:

  • “I know this is a lot. Let’s go one step at a time.”
  • “You’re safe. I’m here with you.”
  • “Tell me what worries you the most right now.”

Confidence grows when you stop trying to sound perfect — and start trying to make people feel supported.

5️⃣ How to Communicate with Your Preceptor

You are NOT annoying for asking questions.

Try saying:

  • “Can I talk through my plan with you?”
  • “I’m not sure what to prioritize here — can you guide me?”
  • “Is there something I could have done differently?”

Safe nurses ask questions. Unsafe nurses pretend to know everything.

6️⃣ How to Build Confidence Over Time

Confidence is not a personality trait — it’s a skill.

And it grows when you:

  • Repeat the same phrases until they feel natural
  • Practice speaking aloud (even when alone)
  • Observe how strong communicators talk
  • Ask for small pieces of feedback
  • Celebrate the moments you speak up

You learn communication the same way you learn nursing — slowly, then all at once.

7️⃣ Helpful Communication Resources for New Nurses

These resources will help you strengthen confidence, clarity, and professional presence.

📘 Books

  • Crucial Conversations – Tools for high-stakes communication
  • The Art of Communication in Nursing and Healthcare – Patient-centered techniques
  • The Language of Kindness – Emotional grounding for nurses

🎧 Podcasts

  • Nurse Becoming – Growth mindset for new nurses
  • The Nurse Keith Show – Professional communication & confidence
  • Mindful in Minutes – Anxiety-calming strategies

📱 Free Apps

  • Calm – To slow breathing before making calls
  • Headspace – Confidence and grounding exercises
  • Cues AI – Helps practice assertive communication

💛 RN Hive–Recommended Practices

  • Practice delivering short, clear clinical updates in the mirror
  • Ask to observe senior nurses during provider calls
  • Keep a “phrases I liked” note on your phone
  • Pause and breathe before speaking — clarity comes with calm

Sisterly Advice™ from the Hive

You can be scared and still speak with strength.

Confidence is not the absence of fear. It’s the decision to show up — voice trembling and all.

Your words matter. Your presence matters. Your courage matters.

One day you’ll speak with the ease you admire in others. One day you’ll mentor someone who feels exactly like you do now.

Until then, breathe. Speak clearly. Ask boldly. And trust that you belong here. Welcome to the Hive. 🐝💜