After 5 years of bedside, I just can't anymore.

[cardiacRNatheart24]

So it's been about 10 months since I began working in a CVSICU and it has been by far the most challenging position I've ever worked in. I cannot tell you how many times I've come home completely drained and exhausted being unable to have a normal conversation with my fiance. I'm not sure if it is the work environment or having worked bedside for 5 years, but I have been extremely burned out. It has come to the point that I have severe anxiety attacks the night before I have to work and can't even talk to my fiance about. He does not understand the stresses that come along with taking care of critical care patients. I'm beginning to think that I need to start prioritizing what matters most in life, even if it means taking a pay cut to do a non-clinical position that is less stressful and emotionally draining. My body just can't seem to handle this much stress anymore like it used to. I just wanted to reach out and vent to the other nurses out there that have gone through the same issue. I'm just concerned that this job has definitely taken a toll on my family relationships...

[Nurse.Kelsey, BSN, RN]

Look a lot of people may tell you that it may get better, you are still getting used to critical care bla bla bla.... but I say take care of yourself first and foremost. If you decide to go to a nonclinical position, it doesnt mean its permanent. Take care of you first.

[nyteshade, BSN]

As someone who has changed jobs for lifestyle reasons, yes I'd say look elsewhere. There's more to life than just your job and I have been clinical and nonclinical.