Anyone have nightmares?

[dec2007]

I was just curious if other nurses experience work-related nightmares on a frequent basis?

Even after being on vacation for 10 days, I am still having nightmares that things go wrong at work. (I once dreamed that I had patients in two of our ICU units, which are physically far apart, and had to run between units all shift to care for them both. I woke up exhausted!) I have been a nurse for over 20 years and in this department for over 10, so it isn't "new job stress". Anyone else have this occur? Does anyone have any advice for me on how to keep work out of my subconscious once I leave the hospital? I'd appreciate any advice. Thanks in advance.

[VivaLasViejas, ASN, RN]

I still have dreams like that and I retired almost three years ago!

[dec2007]

That's too bad Viva! I had hoped itty would at least stop when I returned! Sorry you still have to deal with it!

[Dianna11]

I don't have work related nightmares per se, although I am sure they are related at least partially with work stress!!

The main ones I have now are tornadoes!! Recurring nightmares that we are being blown away by massive tornadoes, trying to find shelter, etc lol.

*sighs*

[Dianna11]

The only time I have work related nightmares is when I spend too much time monitoring patients in MRI....it triggers my claustrophobia big time, and manifests in nightmares. I occasionally find co-workers appear in my dreams, but that's about all.

LOL the pt was supposed to have claustrophobia, not you! I know what you mean though! I used to work in a really small office, had to close the door when interviewing, and I was feeling major claustrophobia!