Hi all! I just wanted to get some ideas and advice on what to do. I'm experiencing bigtime burnout. Our department has gone through a big shakeup where we've lost several staff members and hired some new ones to replace those who are gone. I'm one of the only two nurses that have gone through the whole ordeal and am still there. I work in a diagnostic cath lab and it's the perfect job. Great hours, no weekends, no call and no holidays. I couldn't ask for better but I feel absolutely worn out because of the changes and stress that has gone on in the department.
I've been a nurse for 25 yrs and have done lots of things, mainly critical care nursing. I feel I'm at the end of my career since I can't think of anything else to do. I don't want to give up what I have but I sort of feel that I need to look at something OUTSIDE of nursing. I was working on my BSN online but my heart isn't in it for now so I'm taking a break from it.
Anyone have any ideas of other directions I could go?? I've done education, risk management, long term care insurance, etc..... I just need a break from the craziness!
Switching from ER to home health was the best decision I ever made
I feel like I hit a "burn out" moment every month or two....another nurse has been telling me about Home Care and she thinks I'd be great at it (I work acute care now) ... she did mention the 'paperwork/computer work' but the stress is so much less and you can be done by 1pm if you schedule well and then you do documenting later at night.......I am very tempted and prob will explore it more in the next few months
I think you are doing the right thing by taking some time off. I would if I were you, however, find a way to keep my foot in the door at your present job since it does sound kinda cushy - ya know, just work the minimum amount (PRN - 1 day a month even) just to stay in that job.
Specializes in Community Health, Med-Surg, Home Health.
You seem to really like your surroundings, but it sounds like the shake up really got to you. How long have you been feeling this way? Maybe it is because of the recent changes that made you feel vulnerable or helpless.
I felt anxious and burned out a few months ago. I took a week off, had my home cleaned, obtained a prescription for medications to reduce the anxiety and somehow, the world seemed to be a bit clearer. I would see if you can afford to reduce your hours, or as others have suggested, home and hospice care may be a consideration. Good luck and try to relax.
YellowFinchFan
228 Posts
I feel like I hit a "burn out" moment every month or two....another nurse has been telling me about Home Care and she thinks I'd be great at it (I work acute care now) ... she did mention the 'paperwork/computer work' but the stress is so much less and you can be done by 1pm if you schedule well and then you do documenting later at night.......I am very tempted and prob will explore it more in the next few months