Does this job seem extreme?

[MSUOUgirl]

Hi all,

So I started at this inpatient psych unit about a month ago. I had less than 2 weeks orientation and was put out on the floor with 9-10 patient load. This population is probably the highest acuity level--all have schizophrenia, untreated, many background social issues.

The unit itself is understaffed...everyone's schedule is random and sometimes scheduling happens day by day. So many people call in (3 in one night was the max I heard of) but at least every other day.

Everyone is miserable including me.

This is my first job so I do not want to leave.

Does this seem like an unreasonable place to work?

[malenurse69, MSN, NP]

Less than two week orientation for a new graduate? I've heard of two week orientations for experienced nurses working on similar floors but a newgrad? I'd speak to your NM asap and demand 4-6 more weeks at least. Also it's normal to feel overwhelmed and defeated no matter what job you get first as a newgrad, the clinical learning curve is steep after school

[canoehead, BSN, RN]

How many nurses are on the unit total, for how many patients? Is there a charge or med nurse that doesn't take an assignment? A security guard, or secretary? For physical care, how demanding is it?

[MSUOUgirl]

We have two nurses for 19 patients and 2 mental health technicians. One of the nurses is the charge nurse. No real physical care. We call up security constantly. We had them up 7 times today. That is when the 2 mental health techs are not men. We had 2 in restaints and at least 6 that required shots.

I remained calm today even though a patient tried to attack me...I got away by running into a locked room.

Something will probably have to change because the hospital has been fined a few times because of the number of assaults. Also most people on my unit are really upset about the safety as well as the scheduling.

I am taking things day by day.

[NICUismylife, ADN, BSN, RN]

Yes, that sounds extreme. They ought to have security assigned to that floor 24/7, and additional staff. Leave ASAP. It's not worth your safety. Any employer would be understanding about your reason for leaving so shortly after hire.

[MSUOUgirl]

I decided to ask for more orientation time so we will see what my manager says. Since I am a new grad I do not want to "throw in the towel" just yet. I talked to my aunt who is a nurse and she said that Tenet hospitals have the worst reputation so I do not know.

[cleback]

I decided to ask for more orientation time so we will see what my manager says. Since I am a new grad I do not want to "throw in the towel" just yet. I talked to my aunt who is a nurse and she said that Tenet hospitals have the worst reputation so I do not know.

I'd advise against this. This place sounds dangerous. If something happens that will put them into scrutiny by the state, they probably will not hesitate to throw you and any other staff member under the bus. I've seen it happen. My advice would be to look for another job immediately.

[amoLucia]

Something will probably have to change because the hospital has been fined a few times because of the number of assaults.

This is a MAJOR concern to me.

More orientation time will not correct an unsafe environment. Nor will it quell concerns where there are staffing and scheduling problems present.

Staffing and scheduling does require some fluidity and flexibility, but I don't think it is to the degree that your facility is dealing with.

Proceed cautiously & good luck.