I recently started doing per diem in a community hospital that's not considered a 'real' hospital in the eyes of some of the nurses on my floor. I think this is due to the limited pharmacy/cafeteria hours and relatively low census.
I came from a huge academic hospital in the DC area and even did a short stint at a famous hospital in the Bmore area as a student nurse.
I'm finding that I'm honing my clinical skills at this communnity hospital because there are limited resources. I'm having to mix my own drugs, do more IVs, and use more 'wrap arounds' than all I had to do at my other academics hospitals. I don't have access to all the latest gadgets and I don't have to compete with residents to learn new skills. I'm having to rely more on critical thinking because partly because I don't have a choice!
So while it can be annoying and inconvenient sometimes, I find myself learning at a faster rate and becoming more independent.
I've worked in a community hospital and a teaching hospital in the city and have found a difference. I learned a lot while working in the community ... my mentor has noticed my growth as well. I'm a better nurse for it. You learn to work w/what you have and it really develops your skills. Although it can be frustrating at times when you feel lack of support, resources, morale we are all working towards a common goal. These patients are a lot sicker and need us more. In saying that, I did miss the opportunities that the city offered though so I am thinking of going back.
there is nothing wrong with that. there are tremendous opportunities in a large teaching facility. i have peicked up a huge amount of know how from working at mine part time.
BULLYDAWGRN, RN
218 Posts
there is nothing wrong with that. there are tremendous opportunities in a large teaching facility. i have peicked up a huge amount of know how from working at mine part time.