Considering transfer to Motherbaby from NICU...

[2Nurture1]

Has anyone transferred to Motherbaby from NICU and gained a better job satisfaction? I started in a level III NICU a few months ago in what I thought would be my dream job, I have found it to be highly stressful and anxiety driven amongst other things. I came from med-surg working with adults and my co-workers there were great, they exercised teamwork, and care/concern for one another. However, being new off orientation, I get no help if needed from anyone (although I overhear them asking one another if help is needed throughout the shift), I feel so unwelcome and am scared that I can't really count on anyone! No one hardly even talks to me as if I have the plague and I've found a couple of friends currently working in motherbaby who are pulled to our floor some nights than on my own. I'd hate to rush things in transferring but I absolutely dread going in on most nights and am very unhappy there. My hubby doesn't think I should talk to the NM about how I'm feeling since I'm not eligible to transfer for another 2 months. It's very frustrating and I'm not exactly sure what I should do, I don't want to work at a different hospital or facility. Has anyone else been in this type of situation or similar?

[NicuGal, MSN, RN]

Can I ask this....do you ask for help or are you just waiting for someone to notice you floundering? If this is the case, you are going to have issues no matter where you work. We have had people leave to go to postpartum/nursery because NICU isn't a good fit. Some liked it, others didn't. Only you can decide what is right for you.

[2Nurture1]

Hi Nicugal, to answer your question no I'm not simply waiting for someone to notice me floundering. If I have a question or an issue arises I will most definitely seek help and get some answers. However, if you fully read my post I was explaining that no one is helpful towards me although they may ask one another if help is needed with anything. It would be nice if help was offered in the same manner sometimes than only when I'm seeking it being that I'm new there. Also, this was not an issue where I came and everyone worked together it was just a hellish med-surg unit! Although this is where I want to be career wise, I'm quickly realizing that as my dad always told us growing up that a lot of the times you have to take the bitter with the sweet and I suppose this is one those times....Thanks for your reply though.

[NicuGal, MSN, RN]

I didn't mean to sound harsh but many people Come on here and say the same thing and feel they are being singled out. I did read your entire post. I know we ask if people need help but always remember to offer your help also if you are having some down time. NICU is a different environment and you do function pretty independently most of the time. I find it hard to believe that the entire staff is snubbing you or ignoring you. Maybe try to find one or two people and become friendly with them. But if you really hate it then maybe it is best to transfer. But keep in mind you may not be able to transfer for 6-12 months....check your hospital policy.