Confused new RN!

[ashalina213]

Hello! My name is Ashley and I'm a recent grad RN! Passed boards in July, didn't find a job until Dec! Was very frustrated at that point and was willing to settle for anything. Found a job in LTC and do not enjoy it at all. I know my first job is not going to be my last and I know I need to be here for experience. But I'm very overwhelmed and unhappy at this time. I just don't know what to do at this point. I know I don't have much of a choice at there isn't much out there right now! I live south of Boston and there's almost no opportunities for new grads out there! I have an associates, not a bachelors, but I am an RN. Mainly, I'm looking for advice on what to do. I'm so overwhelmed with being new and I have 21 patients of my own and the responsibility is just scary. I know regardless of where I go, being new is going to be tough. But LTC is just NOT for me. Do I suck it up for a year or so then try to move on or should I start looking now? I mean don't get me wrong I'm very greatful for the opportunity I got and know I need the time and experience. But I'm just so happy, I'm really doubting if it's just the job and LTC that I don't like, or nursing itself! I'm thinking, can I not handle the responsibility? Can I not think like these other women? I've left work crying a few times already and almost dread going back. It's just so much. Any advice would be helpful! Thanks so much!

[LoveMyBugs, BSN, CNA, RN]

OP, I feel your pain.

I graduated in June, and have been searching ever since. I did flu shot clinics in September, then in October I started doing pediatric home health, however the company I signed on with was fairly new and not very organized they provided no orientation, I got 3 hours, to observe another nurse with one of my clients, the other one I was told to go there and wing it:eek: the office staff has changed a couple of times, and I never had full time...so I

contiuned to go out and apply to anywhere and everywhere, online and in person.

In January I got hired in a rehab/LTC and I was so happy to finally have a full time nursing job, but I am now 3 weeks in and I hate it.

They are so understaffed, my 10 day orientation was cut by 2 days because they didn't have anyone to work. The rest of the nursing staff is overwhelmed as well, as from what I have seen none of them get out on time, the 8 hour shifts are easily 10-11hour shifts.

It makes me so sad and frusterated because there just in not enough time to do everything that there needs to be done. skilled and LTC have around 30 patients each, there is also a vent wing and that nurse has around 20-25, they had me orient on that wing and it was so crazy running around putting out fires everywhere.

I am working on my BSN and have 6 more months to go.

I conintiue to apply to any opens positions just as I was doing before, I know that not all nursing is this way, I keep telling myself I can do anything for 6 months to a year, and keep on looking while in the process.

[eaRNed]

I would definitely not stick it out. If you plan to do anything other than LTC or nursing home, you need to start getting med-surg experience under your belt. You should stay until you are able to get your foot in the door (and internships, etc. are a great way to do so as some have suggested) at a hospital. I went in to nursing for two reasons: personal enjoyment and money. And I certainly won't sacrifice either one. You should be doing a job that makes you feel good when you leave, no matter how hard you work. And we are intelligent, hard working professionals and should be paid as such. So, in a nutshell, my advice is to look elsewhere, don't stop until you find a place where you are satisfied with both, and be proud

[Kooky Korky, BSN, RN]

No job is perfect.

Also, being a new grad is hard no matter where you work.

Keep your job, learn it well, get the experience for at least a year unless something perfect pops up.

I wish you the best.

[elprup, BSN, RN]

I was in same boat as you. I lasted only several weeks in LTC. I loved the Pts but hated everything else. It's really sad it is that way. I'll never go back. Do what you need to do to keep your sanity. Good luck.

[leslie :-D]

wow...not sure what to tell you...you may want to check out the massachusetts nsg forum and see what they're saying.

also and unfortunately, boston has been maxed out for yrs now...

and is NOT a good place to be job-hunting.

we've had a surplus of new grads for quite some time.

the only thing that may work, is to volunteer at the brigham's, mgh, bi, or any of the leading boston hospitals.

that'd be one way of getting your foot in the door.

you've been checking out boston.com and craig's list?

again, i'm really sorry.

bsn is a definite, minimum requirement in acute care now.

keep your eyes open for job fairs, and put your best foot forward.

wishing you the very best.

leslie

[RNmilwife]

continue to work but keep applying. Apply Apply Apply!!! Good Luck!