I think I might hate nursing

[Lexi256]

As of right now I'm still just a CNA. I've been moving along pretty smoothly with my experience as a CNA. I began my career in a LTC facility and before the first year was over I acquired my CNA2 certificate which helped me to land a job in a hospital part time. As of today I am still working both my LTC job and on the med-surg unit at the hospital and I plan to pick up shifts in other units like ICU and PACU so that I might have a more well-rounded experience in the nursing world. The thing is I have already become bored with both of these jobs. I always feel like I'm busy at the expense of being productive, like my body is in motion but my brain is asleep.

I thought that maybe once I become a nurse, hopefully after nursing school, that I would have more to think about and to focus on but as I watch the nurses I work with it seems that mostly what they do is pass meds and do whatever to fill the time in between med passes. Even in the hospital I see nurses on their phones playing Candy Crush once they have all their tasks finished.

I've also met quite a few nurses, young and old, who are tired of nursing. Some of them even hold other part time jobs so that they don't have to pick up more shifts in the facility.

So I guess what I'm asking is; is there more to nursing than just passing meds?

Feel free to correct me where I'm wrong and I hope I haven't offended any nurses. I'm on this forum to learn so I appreciate any feedback anyone has to offer.

Thank you all.

[Alex_RN, BSN]

I am usually very busy but I always get my lunch and am usually caught up by the end of my shift, but never have time for games. I feel very satisfied when I am able to advocate for a patient or do some really good patient education, or even an elaborate dressing change. I do not think I will stay with bedside care forever, though. I am getting interested in RN jobs off the floor.

[Leader25, ASN, BSN, RN]

In all my years I have never seen a nurse having time to play candy crush let alone have time to eat and use the bathroom.

[Have Nurse, ADN, RN]

It's hard to know what path to take sometimes, isn't it?

I can't say that I agree with the statement that Nursing isn't as physical. That may be the case in LTC, but when I was doing bedside in a hospital environment, I ran those halls all of the time! Changing IV's, starting IVs, turning, dressing changes, foley cares, 3 way foleys with TURPs, q 2 hour I&O for some fresh surgicals, vitals, blood transfusions, P.C.A.s management, suctioning, Oxygen, Monitoring and caring for those going through D.T.s, hauling equipment, participating in codes, ambulating patients, baths, traction, admits, transfers, discharges, education....

I was exhausted but I loved it.

Now, I am much older and most of my work is admin., but I appreciate what your perspective is and it's valid.

But, may I suggest that you research this a bit more? Some times, it's just a matter of finding the right fit.

Best to you!