Demoralised with Nursing

[ChrisNZ]

Hi all,

I'm currently in my second year of nursing school. Whilst I love nursing and helping others I am becoming increasingly sick of all the politics and sloppy practice that I'm exposed to every week.

My all my clinical placements have been of substandard quality full of sloppy practice and am very regularly suggested by my nursing school that I turn a blind eye 'as long as I know the way'.

I also work in a large hospital (largest campus in my part of the world) as a Health Care Assistant (equivalent of PCT). The politics and nastiness in the hospital within the hospital are almost unbearable. I managed to avoid it all, but it seems a CNS has it out for me. She complained to my manager about my 'communication skills' because I didn't answer my Vocera when I was busy in resus helping to turn over the bays with incoming patients.

I know it's a small thing, but I see so much that appals me every day.

Whilst I suppose this isn't exactly deep or insightful, or even a question. Any words of advice or stories/discussion from your own experiences when faced with similar situations would be much appreciated.

[StayHumble11]

Just do what u gotta do to graduate and leave and never look back.

[krocks1218]

i hear you and COMPLETELY empathize. I have experienced sub-par facilities as well as irritable apathetic employees, both as a nurse and patient. Anyway, all i can say is look for a job where the employees are smiling as they enter and LEAVE the building! :) Until that time however, get Zen with yourself and provide the most compassionate care possible. In other words, lead by example and don't let them get you down! Good luck

[lmccrn62, MSN, RN]

Unfortunately not every environment is healthy. You need to find the place that meets your needs. I worked 20 yrs for a institution I loved but lost my job to reorganization. I then went to work at a large academic hospital. I thought I was in hell. Poor practice, poor care and total disregard for patient safety. Administration was cut throat and ineffective leaders. While making the decision to leave was hard because of what I did for patient's was rewarding I needed to save myself. Try to hang in till you graduate then find a place that will let you practice the way that meets your personal and professional standards.

[nccna]

Switch departments.

[seriouslyserious, LPN]

i understand where you're coming from... in a previous life (i have another degree), i was a "whistle blower" and didn't gain anything from it, even though my intentions were gold. changed my career because of it, in hopes nursing would be different. pick your battles. be the change you want to see ...

[Kencanwin]

Get the maximum credentials necessary so you can be the one making the rules...That way the only way will be what you think is the right way.

[EphemeralRemedy]

"Be the change you want to see in the world" of nursing.