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Discussion

Career Change? Advice please!

I have been working on a Med Surg unit as a New Grad for a little over 6 months. I would love to get at least one year of experience under my belt, but I have realized more than ever that bedside nursing isn't for me. I am learning a lot but am already feeling burnt out (which I am sure is also related to being a new grad!).

A little about what I am looking for.. I like the excitement of something new each day. I like to be creative. I like being outside. I have even thought of starting my own business so I can do something I enjoy, but that stability of nursing keeps reeling me back in. I have also found interest in IVF nursing, but I have a hard time finding job openings. Maybe even something outpatient? I hate to say it, because I know it's a part of nursing, but I feel a great deal of stress knowing that someone's life is literally in my hands in bedside nursing. I know it comes with the territory, but I feel other areas of nursing may not be as stressful as where I am now. Again, maybe this is new grad stress.

Nevertheless - I am looking to find out other areas of nursing or even other careers obtainable with a nursing degree that I can venture towards! I don't feel like I know all that is out there!!

Thanks in advance for your positive advice!

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    • Featured Replies

    Any low-stress job open to someone with limited experience is typically going to be very low paying. If the "stability" you speak of is financial, that's something to consider.

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    • Author

    Agreed! Yes, financially my job is stable. I just don't see myself there long term. But I don't want to up and leave for a job that will pay much less.

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    When I was a new grad, I had fantasies of stocking lightbulbs for a job. No stress, little responsibility. Sigh.

    As time went on, I became more confident in my skills, faster at getting things done and developed judgement. That is the process all new grads go through. That kind of experience is valued and opens door to the lower-stress and more autonomous nursing jobs prized by many.

    Think of your first year of nursing as your final year of school.

    You can do it.

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    • Expert

    Honestly...get the year of experience. Quit now and you will be in the New Grad Black Hole: you'll no longer be eligible for most new grad programs but not yet experienced enough for most staff positions. And it's very tough to get out of that hole once you fall into it.

    After a year, you'll feel a lot more comfortable and competent as a nurse, and therefore probably less stressed. You will also have a lot more opportunities opening up to you when you have 1+ years of experience under your belt.

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