Final answer:
The most important instruction for a new nurse is to prioritize tasks and seek help when necessary, always keeping patient care as the primary focus. Demonstrating hard work and willingness to learn helps to build a positive reputation and ensures better integration into the medical team. The correct option is C.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most important statement for a new nurse to follow at her first job is C. "I need to prioritize and ask for help when needed; patient care comes first." This mindset emphasizes the importance of patient care and recognizes that asking for help is a critical component of providing the best care possible.
It is important to balance confidence with the humility to seek assistance and to prioritize tasks effectively. New nurses should also aim to be proactive learners, observe workplace expectations, seek feedback, and set measurable goals to continuously improve and integrate into the team.
Building relationships with colleagues and supervisors, demonstrating hard work, and showing eagerness to learn and grow are key in establishing a good reputation in healthcare. Although documentation is essential, it should not impinge on the immediate needs of patient care.
It is also important to communicate and work collaboratively with the healthcare team, including consulting supervisors when necessary, and not just relying solely on colleagues' advice or working in isolation.