Can't get happy?

[TNViking]

Hello, so I'm fairly new to the allnurses forum. I've made one post previously about feeling discouraged in my work situation; I've been on a med-surg floor for close to a year now, but have known for awhile that it is just not a good fit for me at all. My dream is ER nursing, and almost got a job in it several months back but lost it due to a nurse who was already down there wanted a full time position. Since then, I've been doing everything I can to get there; I've been keeping in contact with management, gaining certifications, trying to do my best in my current position, anything to get me there. But despite all this it just seems like nothing is working, I spoke with someone the other day and found out there is a line of nurses waiting to get into our ER, a line that I don't even know if I am a part of. I keep asking what I need to do, but all I hear is "just keep getting certifications and keep in contact." I applied at the only other ER in this area, but was turned down after two interviews without explanation. I keep trying to stay positive, but I just feel like I am going to be stuck in med surg forever. My partner says I need to learn to be content, which I am truly grateful for having a job. I know it can be worse. But anytime I start to think about things I feel sick, discouraged, and down. I don't know what to do. I don't want to continue feeling like this.

[NurseLife88, ADN, RN]

Firstly don't get discouraged. ER positions seem to be amongst those most coveted therefore more difficult to get into. 1 year is not long at all. If ER is really where you want to be then consider a few things. One could be getting your foot into a different unit that may benefit you more in ER such as an ICU/CCU as you could gain some more critical skills and experience. Also try widening your search if you have more options available or are willing to travel. And keep doing what your doin. Gaining certifications and experience along the way that will be more than beneficial. Don't forget the power of networking as well. Im only a novice here but you seem to be headed in the right direction so keep your chin up and good luck!

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

I encourage you to 'become engaged' in task force/committee work in your facility. This demonstrates not only your value, but also a deeper level of commitment to your employer. These are characteristics that will stand out to any manager - they are looking for staff who have more than just a "time clock" mentality.... who are willing to help them improve the department. If possible, look for an initiative that involves other departments because this will provide you with greater visibility.

Yes, this is the dreaded "politics" that so many nurses claim to hate - but it is what it is. You can complain about it or you can use it to your advantage. FYI, these 'extracurricular' activities look great on your resume.

[3ringnursing, BSN]

Forever is a long time … I totally understand your frustration, but you have to look at the long haul. You definitely won't be stuck there forever. It's tough when you want - no NEED -something right now to understand that what you most desire will eventually come to fruition. You'll be in nursing for many years to come, and likely have a variety of different jobs by the time you retire.

When you are new to nursing and only have a few years under your belt it is especially hard when that is your only frame of reference to realize you have a long, long career ahead of you. You WILL get a ER position if that is what you really want. Maybe not tomorrow, or next week, but if you truly want it you will eventually get a ER job. You may even find that another position - say cath lab, or ICU is where you will eventually love to be.

One thing I've discovered in my life is you can do anything, and I mean anything if you are persistent enough. Nothing in nursing is impossible if you have enough nerve. Patience is hard for me too, but you WILL get that ER job. I believe in your ability to get it and be excellent at it too.