Leave Chemo. Infusion?

[Taylor55]

I would appreciate any thoughts at all. I've been in a VERY large chemo. outpatient unit for one year in a metropolitan suburb. It is a well-oiled machine and we treat 170-205 patients per day. I've been getting 10/day.

I arrive one hour before shift starts to do as much as I can but still usually running 4 chairs at once. If I get a cancellation, another is added. Our protocols our involved etc. I just passed my OCN. My managers are nasty, auditing and expecting perfect documentation etc. Completely terrify me.

I worked hard to get this job. Other RN's complain bitterly too but many live close so will stick it out. I dread each shift. If I leave what would I do? Try to get a smaller unit? Leave chemo? Stick it out another year? They are advertising for more RN's. Anyone else been in a position like this?

[la_chica_suerte85, BSN, RN]

As I've said in another thread, infusion center nursing is challenging. We try to keep our kids outpatient as much as possible and that means the infusion centers are just filling up and slammed on a regular basis. They have been trying to entice nurses from our unit to cross train there so they can float there more frequently when our census is low. I've been and it is truly terrifying. For the seasoned nurses I've met, though, they just tough it out and get through the grind as efficiently as they can. So, I'd say stick it out. Outpatient chemo is growing and growing and will only grow more so hopefully you guys will continue to be able to hire to meet the demand. I like the concept of "getting in and getting out ASAP" with infusion center nursing but the pace is difficult, especially when you are still following the inpatient protocols that aren't going to be adapted to infusion centers because of the inherent safety considerations of chemo (but, would have more time to devote to in an inpatient setting). You will adapt and you will be able to figure out your routine and how you fit in and help with that well-oiled machine. Good luck!

[Taylor55]

Wow chica, you understand exactly what I'm saying. And your analysis sounds right on the mark. And super smart. And I feel better lol.

Ok I'm going to take your advice and focus on improving over the next year or so. Thank you so much.