by qaqueen

I am a new grad that was "fortunate" enough to get a job.

I actually resisted accepting this position for as long as I could afford to because it felt like it would be mostly new grads, kind of like the blind leading the blind.

Turns out, it is worse than I anticipated. Not only is most of the staff in my unit on my shift "new", less than 1 year experience, but there are safety issues that genuinely concern me (and others), but do not seem to be a priority for management. We run out of supplies, we run out of meds, we do not have adequate support personnel on night shift--the unit secretary covers multiple floors on nights, no transport, etc..

I have not personally approached management, however, I have been told by several co-workers that attempts to improve the situation are futile. My pts are wonderful and I enjoy working with them, unfortunately I do not believe they are getting optimal care because of equipment and personnel shortages.

I am concerned that I am risking not only my patients well-being, but also my license.

So do I stay and try to fight for what is right? (remember I am a VERY new grad, less than 6 months) or do I run, far and fast? At this point, my inclination is to run, obviously, the shortage of jobs for new grads is the biggest problem.

Any advice, input, suggestions will be most gratefully appreciated.

Blessed Be

Re: Do I Shut Up And Stay, Or Run????

The problem with running is that there may be nothing to run to. Try to stick it out as long as possible so that you have at least that "magical" one year experience. You can always continue to work while you seek a new job, then give notice once, or if, you are offered a new position. Keep in mind that a new position may not necessarily be a better position.

Re: Do I Shut Up And Stay, Or Run????

first year after school can be so frustrating!! I've been in nursing for 43 years and can still remember that first year!! Now, I do not recommend running....however I also don't recommend keeping my mouth shut! Short of supplies??find out how supplies are replaced...are people not charging properly and supplies are not being replaced??? Ward clerks for multiple units are common so learning how to input labs and meds to pharmacy will make your life so much easier...do you and your co-workers work as a team?"we're all in this together" makes the situation easier to bear. Too busy to get off the unit to eat?.....have everybody bring in a dish to share and leave it in the conference room so you don't go hungry. Does everyone help with a new admission? that really keeps everyone caught up with the work of the night. Take care of yourself during this first frustrating position, get your sleep, get your nutrition, exercise and laugh!! You are learning so much in your first year...in no time it will be over and then you can make a decision as to staying or running. I was in practice for30 years in all positions from staff to Director of Nursing. Trying to fix things usually worked better for me than running....however sometimes running was the only thing to do. I teach nursing now....however those years of practice and "bad jobs" made me the nurse I am today!
Take Care
Sandy Hale RN.MS

Re: Do I Shut Up And Stay, Or Run????

omg.. i feel the same way..i'm a new grad and i've been working at a snf for 7 weeks now as on-call. i know it is understandable that as new grads, we are just learning. but i cant help but be frustrated about the same things that are going on in ur job qaqueen. i think a nurse can only be as good as the facility lets them. unfortunately, our present jobs dont do that.

because i am a new grad, i feel so frustrated that i am not good at what i do. i do try my best but it just irks me to think that one little thing can get u in trouble and ruin ur license and ur life, no matter how much CYA u do. often times, i feel inadequate and i do expect more of myself. everytime i get home, i wanna beat myself up because i could have done better and i should have known. but what can u do when ur own ur own in a snf where u have 30 pts?

what do i have to do now?

Re: Do I Shut Up And Stay, Or Run????

Sandy,

Thank you for insight and your suggestions, I will incorporate them.

I am an "older" new grad, who has re-careered. I do know that you take your h@ll with you wherever you go, however I have worked for and had clinicals at other hospitals in this corporation, this hospital does seem to be the red-headed stepchild.

I am willing to work for change, but I have not been able to locate the right people (i.e., management) to work with.

I do appreciate your wisdom and have taken it to heart

Thank you

Re: Do I Shut Up And Stay, Or Run????

Sandbox,

A word to the wise, work within the policies and procedures of your facility, get your own insurance and don't quit till you find another job.

Good Luck