Courage to change jobs

GrumpyRN63, ADN, RN · Feb 19, 2008

I understand how you feel, when you leave your shift, and you start counting down the hours, dreading the time when you have to go back, it's probably time to move on.. that being said, it sounds like you are really in a toxic environment and have to leave, look at it that way, you have no choice.

Most people are creatures of comfort,and yes it may seem easier having a horrible job in a familiar setting with people you know,but there are other jobs, better jobs , one of which you deserve and one that deserves you as well.

Could you think about changing to a different department or unit rather than leaving the hospital?? Of course you may want to think about alternatives not in the hospital setting such as clinic,home care,school nursing, that wouldn't require an hour's commute, use your experience to your advantage. Take the chance, you never know unless you try.

I'm just starting a new job after 20 years in the same facility,it's a little unnerving, but I keep telling myself everyone feels like I do, it;s normal, I wouldn't be normal if I weren't a little on edge,and everyday, I get through it,apparently doing ok , and it gets easier. And if worse comes to worse, oh well, there's a big world out there and other opportunities. I'm sure you'll be fine, you may also want to consider going per diem,(initially at least) so you don't completely cut yourself off from that (unsafe) 'safety net' GOOD LUCK!!!

trese · Feb 19, 2008

Hi Chenoaspirit,

I know where you are. I was there last spring. I worked on a telemetry floor that just could not keep help, and would not hire help to keep the floor staffed. I was somewhat a new nurse (less than 2 years exp), and knew I had to leave before I lost my license. I did not know much about the other floors, no friends on the floors to tell me what was best and I had to finish out 3 years of nursing so that I would not owe the hospital any time. So I went to the float pool. I figured that nothing could be as bad as where I had been. I had already been ran ragged, challenged to the max and worked a solid 12 hours stressed as much as I could be. Atleast I would get a $3 bump to do the same job. Well, good news. I am coming up on my one year of float pool and I love it. Yes, there are times, when I wonder, :what was I thinking?" But the majority of the time, I realize that it was the best move. I am still put back on my home floor which is a nice break( I see all my friends and I actually know the floor). I wish you well with your decision. Just make sure that you are not leaving and having debt held over your head, when the option may very well lie within the same facility.

Theresa

pagandeva2000, LPN · Feb 19, 2008

Starting a new job can be compared to being a graduate nurse; you don't know what you are walking into. But, if you keep in mind that you have acquired experience that can be applied to this new place (moreso than when you were a graduate nurse), maybe that transition can be a bit easier on your mind.

Anytime we start someplace else, even in a different department, we are like a fish in new, uncharted waters. There will be different personalities, rules, protocols and policies. You have to learn the politics, the players and the bosses. But, remember, the archtypes of personalities do not change, only the faces do. Good luck!

psychnurse1998 · Feb 19, 2008

Ive worked on my floor since I graduated nursing school. Im used to it and comfortable in my role there. Im scared to try another job. Now with that said... My floor is going to he$$. Everyone is quitting because of the staffing and issues. This in turn is making us very short staffed and putting alot of pressure on those of us who are staying. This has been going on for about a year now. When one quits, there is no attempt by management to hire for replacement. We start out with 8 patients at the beginning of our shift, which leave the gate wide open for more with new admissions, transfers, etc. I end up with so many patients by the end of the shift, Im literally running in and out of rooms with no sense of direction. I dont have enough time or resources to get everything done. Im now finding that Im making mistakes, drug errors. I cant take it anymore. How do I get the courage to leave, this is all I know. This job is making me question my nursing abilities and is destroying my self esteem. But at the same time, I am scared to go somewhere else. Im scared that if I go somewhere else, it will be just as bad, but I will be like a fish out of water and be less able to perform because everything is new. While I feel "comfortable" at my job, Im also very uncomfortable because of the situation. For those of you who have had more than one job.....how did you get your courage up to leave and find another job. The longer Im there, the harder it gets. This post may not make much sense, Ive worked the past 3 nights with no sleep and Im exhausted. But Im so upset. Please give me some advice. Also, if I switch jobs, I will have to drive at least an hour one way because this is the only local hospital. What should I do? Complaining up the chain of command has done no good.

Its nice to know..what is going on in nursing first hand. Why there is so much nurse burn out. Its too bad, often the only solution is running away from the problem. I am glad in california, there has been more confronting the staffing issues problems than running away from them. I think the best solution for the nurse and the patient is to think of collective action. I know there exists, expecially in the South a lot of bias against unions. And I know Unions and Union leadership have much to be desired. But given the choices, they are best we have now. But in the mean time what do we do...run away..because even I take that course now.

As you consider your change, keep in mind that there are only about a dozen states that protect a workers right to a lunch break. If you are able to pick a state, pick one with at least those basic rights. I dont think Kentucky is one of those states, I know California and New york are. I think working for a registry....gives one a chance to explore whats out there. You could, take a vacation from your job and try that. Or you could work fewer days where you work now, and gradually reduce your work days, untill you can say ...take this job and ..shove it? Actually I dont believe in burning my bridges, its against OSAhs safes practises. ..but seriously, one never knows when one may have to return, for whatever reason.

suespets · Jul 6, 2008

I have found that most changes turn out for the best. You'll most likely find something you love, is what I'm saying. And yes never burn your bridges, If for no other reason than ae good referance,(but you can always get those from your admiring co-workers) Most prospective employers ask if they can call your present employer for a good reason, they know about the sour grapes potential!To sum up, I'm hearing that you need, must, leave there to save your sanity!!!!! sue

husker_rn, RN · Jul 6, 2008

If your gut is telling you it's time to move on....listen. It can be scary but most people are glad to welcome a new newcomer onboard. I always appreciate new hires and do what I can to help them. Believe most nurses out there feel the same way. Just take a deep breath and take the plunge....we'll be there to catch you.

bluefabian · Jul 6, 2008

Tell me about it. I am within five years of nursing and about to enter my third workplace and environment shift.

The first time, it will be hard. But once you done it, it will be better from then on. And getting used to a new place won't be easy too. I had thoughts of going back, yet I stayed put.

If you are wondering whether you should quit the place or not, you should ask yourself this:

Am I working for the job/place or Is the job working for me?

Hopefully, it is not the first one.

Babs0512 · Jul 7, 2008

I can't speak for California, but I worked years in NY in the ER without proper breaks or lunch breaks, and no one cared. Not our nurse manager, or the DON. It was even mentioned to JACHO when they came around, nothing changed.