Abstract

This narrative inquiry explored the personal story of a newly hired nurse navigating the challenges of public healthcare. The study identified five key themes: inspiration, growth and development, learning and communication, clinical practice, and anxiety and coping strategies. Grounded in theories such as Social Cognitive Career Theory, Transformational Learning Theory, and the Transactional Model of Stress and Coping, the findings revealed the impact of intrinsic motivation, mentorship, and continuous learning on the participant’s professional journey. The participant highlighted the significance of familial influence, experiential learning, and effective communication in shaping resilience and adaptability, particularly in resource-limited settings. Anxiety management through prayer, self-care, and support networks emerged as critical for workplace well-being. The study’s implications emphasize the need for mentorship programs, stress management workshops, and experiential learning opportunities in nursing education and practice. These findings offer valuable insights for improving new nurses’ professional development, job satisfaction, and patient care outcomes.