How to Build a Nursing Crew That Keeps You Sane
What will you nursing crew look like?
You’re smart. You’re compassionate. You’re capable. And you’re still going to need someone to catch you when this job knocks the wind out of you.
That’s what this blog is about—your people. The crew that gets you through the shifts when nothing makes sense, the nights when you can’t sleep after a code, the mornings you walk into work already tired.
I’ve talked to a lot of you—new nurses, NCLEX students, grads still figuring it out—and so many of you think you don’t need anyone. You tell me, “I work better alone,” or “I don’t want to bother anyone.” And honestly, I get it. Nursing can feel like you’re supposed to be some kind of solo superhero.
But here’s the truth: you’re going to need people. There will be a shift where you just need to cry in the break room and someone hands you a tissue before you even ask. There’ll be a day when you almost hang the wrong IV and someone quietly says, “Wait, are you sure about that med?” That’s not weakness. That’s how we keep each other safe.
Whether it’s online, in your unit, or a voice on the other end of a late-night text—you need a crew. And they need you, too.
Let’s dive in!
Why a Nursing Crew Matters (More Than You Think)
Let’s get this out of the way: a good crew is not just about having lunch buddies. It’s about staying sane in a system that sometimes feels like it’s set up to break you.
When you have the right people around you:
Burnout doesn’t win. You’ve got someone to vent to after you walk out of a patient room holding back tears.
You grow faster. A good nurse friend doesn’t just support you—they teach you.
You avoid big mistakes. Nurses catch things for each other.
You feel like you belong. And that matters more than you think when your confidence is shaky.
I once had a nurse buddy who kept a pack of peanut butter crackers in her locker—just in case someone didn’t get a lunch. That’s not just a snack. That’s a lifeline on a 12-hour shift.
Have the right people around you.
Who Belongs in Your Crew?
You don’t need five best friends on the unit. You need a mix of people who bring something solid to your practice—and your spirit. Here's who to look for:
The Veteran: The nurse who’s been there, done that, and doesn’t make you feel dumb for asking what “KVO” means. They’ve seen code browns, code blues, and maybe even a ghost on night shift.
The Cheerleader: They hype you up when you need it most. They celebrate the little wins—and in nursing, little wins matter.
The Straight-Talker: Not always gentle, but always honest. They’ll tell you when you’ve got something to fix—but they’ll help you fix it, too.
The Quiet Helper: The one who grabs vitals while you chart, restocks your med drawer, or simply says “You good?” and means it.
And sometimes, you’re going to be one of those people for someone else. That’s crew life.
Nurse crew life
Where to Find Your People
Some of you might be thinking, “But what if I haven’t found anyone yet?” That’s okay. You don’t have to wait to be chosen—you can build it.
On your unit: Notice who helps without being asked. Who explains things without judging.
Preceptorship/residency: You’re all new together. That bond is gold.
Online communities: Like the One on One Tips Facebook group or Instagram circle.
Webinars, tutoring sessions, or NCLEX study groups: Sometimes your crew is in your Zoom room.
Nursing school connections: Don’t lose them. They’ve seen your worst exam meltdowns—they’re already ride or die.
Start small. Make eye contact. Ask for help. Offer help. That’s how connection starts.
Celebrate the wins of other nurses.
How to Keep a Crew Strong
Finding people is step one. Keeping the relationship strong takes small, intentional effort. No big speeches or group retreats required.
Try this:
Check in after hard shifts—even with a one-line text.
Celebrate their wins. (“Hey, I heard you got that IV on the first try—nice!”)
Share tips and resources without being asked.
Be the judgment-free zone. Mistakes happen. Let them talk about it.
Offer snacks. Seriously—food builds trust.
Friendships don’t grow because everything is going great. They grow because we show up—even when we’re tired or quiet or unsure.
Some of your crew could be a click or a scroll away.
If You’re Feeling Alone, Read This
Maybe you don’t have a crew right now. Or maybe you had one and something happened. A job change. A falling out. Burnout.
You are not the only one. You’re not weird. You’re not failing. You’re just in a space where connection hasn’t caught up with you yet.
You don’t have to stay there.
Start by replying to someone’s comment. Post in a group. Ask a question. DM a nurse you admire. You don’t need to be brave for long—just long enough to say hello.
And if you’re not sure where to start, start here. My inbox is open. My Facebook group is open. The One on One Tips crew is real!
Want a new badge reel?
A Small Giveaway That Means a Lot
I found these name tag holders with badge reels—little things with sayings like “Nurses Call the Shots” and “You Can Sit With Us.” I ordered a bunch.
Want one?
Comment on the blog or tag a nurse friend on our Instagram post to enter the giveaway. Or share your story of how you found your crew—or how you’re still looking.
The badge reel is just a symbol. The real gift is connection.
You Were Never Meant to Do This Alone
You can know your meds, rock your assessments, and chart like a pro—but that doesn’t mean you don’t need help. Or kindness. Or someone who gets it.
Find your people. Keep them close. Show up for them, and let them show up for you.
Nursing will push you to your edge. Your crew is what pulls you back.
Connection Challenge Starting at 3:30 pm Eastern time Friday, July 25th, after reading the blog, make a comment below or on the blog using these prompts First 10 on either page
Post your response in the comments with this prompt:
“Here’s who’s on my crew right now—and who I’m hoping to find.”
(Feel free to tag a nurse friend or leave a message like “Looking for a cheerleader-type in this group!”)
Or DM someone in the group who commented and say,
“Hey, want to be part of each other’s crew?”
Or, comment your favorite badge reel saying or tag a nurse friend for a chance to win a fun name badge reel!
Items in the badge reel include, penlight, an ink pen, scissors, a highlighter, and a black Sharpie. Also, a name badge holder and a fun name badge tag!
You CAN do this!
Comment below!
I invite my readers to join a discussion in the blog comment section to share tips and support each other in developing this essential skill.
💬 Join the Conversation:
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Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments:
Do you have a nurse crew?
If not, how do you intend to start looking for your nurse crew?
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Any tips or stories you'd like to share with your fellow new nurses?
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