Canadian RN 1 year work experience in the US

[hypnotizer90, BSN, RN]

Who knew COVID19 would happen after deciding to work in the US! So much happened for a year, definitely growth. Now, I needed to move on professionally but I must complete some goals:

1. Get medical-surgical certificate after 2 yrs at the end of this year.

2. Get ACLS certified then move to ICU next year. 

I'm working at a medical-surgical/general surgery floor (unionized hospital). A busy unit - admissions and discharges. 1RN to 5patients/day shifts, at least I have nursing techs to help + resource nurse if we are not short staff. 

Our unit eventually turned to a COVID19 unit. 1RN to 4 COVID+ patients or PUI (patient under investigation). These patients status change every time needing transfer to immediate care or ICU. They could be off isolation per Providers from Infectious Dse &Infection Control or even discharged if deemed stable I.e. continue quarantining at home. 

I was not exposed nor COVID+ in comparison to my coworkers. I had my 2 doses of Pfizer COVID19 vaccines with mild side effects. We have PPEs. I have been using the half-mask. But I find myself more fatigued. I stopped picking up more shifts to enjoy my days off. I have been staying at home since it's Winter.

*Despite the fact, I should not complain since I know more&more nurses in different States have worst experience than mine.